Merchants outraged over the city’s plans to bring 1,800 new parking meters to downtown need to give the initiative a chance.
City officials believe this aggressive approach – which also includes the addition of about a dozen more meter checkers – will bring an estimated $2 million in revenues to city coffers. We hope it does, because it is certainly a more acceptable alternative than a “commuter tax,” a very bad idea that had been up for discussion.
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We do have concerns about an onslaught of new parking meters and the potential for them to drive some customers and clients of downtown businesses off to the suburbs. But if carried out properly, this more aggressive approach to parking enforcement should help downtown merchants, not harm them.
The plan unveiled earlier this month at a meeting of the Downtown Merchants Association calls for not only more and modernized meters, but the installation of parking kiosks throughout the city. The proposal, if nothing else, is extensive.
But consider this. An efficient meter system, with proper enforcement, should create an ebb and flow of parking spaces, making it more likely that a customer or client of a downtown business will find a space – not less likely.
It is also good news to see that the old, damaged or broken meters are being replaced by new ones and motorists will be able to pay with credit cards or special passes.
Dan Baudouin, president of the Providence Foundation, said his organization supports the city’s plan to add the meters and more strictly enforce parking rules.
“We see it as part of an overall system,” he said.
At the same time, he said, the city needs to move forward with plans for additional public parking garages.
We agree. A major component of this parking enforcement initiative must be a renewed and more spirited effort on the part of the city to push for additional public parking garages and lots.
GTECH breaks ground
GTECH has broken ground for its new world headquarters at the corner of Francis Street and Memorial Boulevard. Without question, that ceremonial event on Friday, Dec. 3, represents a monumental time for the capital city.
We maintain the stance we took a year-and-a-half ago when GTECH forged a deal with city and state officials. Yes, the lottery giant received lucrative tax breaks – but the deal is a good one for both sides.
For the first time in 16 years, a bright new office building is going up in downtown Providence. The 10-story, $80-million building, with its office space, restaurants and retail component will be a terrific addition to the Capital Center landscape.
Let the renaissance continue!
