Cleveland City Councilman Kevin Bishop is advocating for a pause on the city’s new parking program, urging officials to gather feedback from residents and businesses impacted by increased costs. Bishop expressed concerns that the changes could raise the cost of living for many in the community. He made the remarks during an interview on March 15, 2024, highlighting the need for more engagement with those affected by the new parking fees.
The legislation passed by the city council last year allowed for the elimination of free weekend parking and introduced a rate increase to $1.50 per hour. According to Bishop, this initiative was intended to address parking challenges in Downtown Cleveland, not to raise expenses in residential neighborhoods. He emphasized, “It wasn’t our intent, and we didn’t envision that we would be adding so many different, so many additional parking spaces for paid parking.”
Bishop’s comments follow the decision to install new parking meters along Detroit Avenue, specifically between West 28th and West 29th streets. The enhancements will impact local businesses, including Premier Barber Studio, where barber Tara Cohen works. Cohen predicts that parking fees could cost her up to $400 per month, a burden she fears will deter clients and harm her business. “It’s kind of a like a get in where you fit in situation,” she noted, referring to the existing parking challenges in the area.
Cohen, who resides in Cleveland Heights but works in Cleveland, expressed her commitment to the community. “Even though I don’t live directly in Cleveland, I work here so I pay taxes, and I want to be a part of the community down here,” she said. She believes the changes will discourage small business owners from continuing their operations in the area.
The City of Cleveland has not yet responded publicly to Bishop’s request for a moratorium on the parking program. A spokesperson, Tyler Sinclair, opted not to provide an on-camera interview but released a statement addressing the concerns regarding the new parking fees. As the city navigates this contentious issue, the response from residents and business owners alike may shape the future of the parking program.
Bishop’s call for a pause underscores a growing sentiment among Cleveland residents who feel the new parking measures could disproportionately affect local businesses and lower-income individuals. As the city moves forward with its plans, ongoing dialogue with the community will be essential to ensure that the needs of all stakeholders are considered.
