Parking meters could return to Downtown Calexico
Adrik Vargas
CALEXICO, Calif. (KYMA, KECY) – Calexico is moving closer to bringing back its downtown parking meters. The City Council recently gave early approval to updated rates and upgraded solar-powered meters.
Under the new plan, meters would charge $1 per hour with a two-hour limit from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and $2 per hour overnight. The goal, city officials say, is to address concerns raised by both business owners and locals.
“I think it’s good they charge minimally, so that people don’t stay parked longer than they’re supposed to, and also to respect the local businesses,” said Sebastian Romero, who works downtown.
But not everyone is convinced. Some residents are worried that higher parking costs could drive shoppers away.
“Because if people pay a price they’re not used to, especially if it’s more expensive, they’ll think twice about coming by,” said Jesus Mayoral, a local.
Another concern is people leaving their cars for days while crossing into Mexicali.
“A lot of people start to play the system, like they’ll park the car and leave it there for days,” Mayoral said.
Business owner Joong Kim thinks a separate lot for overnight parking could help.
“To the people staying in Mexicali long hours, we could find some way to charge them, that is more constructive than charging the people every minute,” Kim said.
Brand new meters aren’t expected to be installed until sometime next year.