(WEST PALM BEACH, FLA) — Parking enforcement in downtown West Palm Beach just got less expensive and more flexible.

Beginning Monday, August 1, 2022, parking meters that were enforced 24-hours-a-day will have different times when fees will be collected.

After a public outcry, city officials made the change which affects parking spots from the Amtrak train station east to Flagler Drive.

Starting Monday, the city is doing away with its 24/7 enforcement and reduced the cost of a parking ticket by $2.50 to $35.

The parking zone that includes Clematis Street and The Square will be enforced between 7 a.m. and midnight.

The other two zones will be enforced between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m. and 7 a.m. and 7 pm.

Per the new resolution, enforcement will now be carried out in each zone according to set timeframes, instead of 24/7, as follows:

• Zone A: 7 a.m. – midnight
• Zone B: 7 a.m. – 9 p.m.
• Zone C: 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.

The city listened and made the changes after business owners said the 24/7 enforcement was driving shoppers and patrons away from downtown.

“Sample data shows that, as a result of the previously enacted changes to the City’s parking rate structure, the rate of citations for expired parking has declined by 25%, on-street parking duration has decreased by 13%, and the frequency of on-street parking for less than 15 minutes has increased by nearly 40%. This preliminary data shows there is now more parking availability for visitors and patrons.”

“We have been in communication with downtown merchants, residents and visitors to help facilitate an efficient and equitable parking experience,”  Parking Administrator Ed Davis. “We are grateful for the constructive feedback from the community and are responding accordingly to help maximize parking options for residents, visitors and businesses.”

According to a release from the city:

Meanwhile, the rates of the parking meters will stay the same, and there is still no free parking on Sundays or holidays.