Fort Pierce enforces two-hour parking limits downtown
Fort Pierce has started issuing citations for exceeding two-hour parking limits downtown, aiming to improve parking turnover and traffic flow.
FORT PIERCE, Fla. —
The city of Fort Pierce is enforcing two-hour parking limits in parts of downtown, with citations now being issued to drivers who exceed the limit.
Drivers who stay longer than two hours will receive a $50 citation, which increases to $100 for repeat offenses. The initiative, which began in July, aims to increase parking turnover, improve traffic flow, and make it easier for visitors to find available spaces, according to city officials.
Parking downtown can be challenging in any city due to congestion and limited spaces. Owner of Notions & Potions, Beryl Muise, spoke about those challenges before the city implemented the parking limit.
Fort Pierce has started issuing citations for exceeding two-hour parking limits downtown, aiming to improve parking turnover and traffic flow.
“You drive around forever, just trying to find a spot just so you can run in,” Muise said.
Muise said the two-hour parking limit has benefited her business.
“I have seen my customers be able to find a parking spot and come into the store, and then get back into their car and be able to leave. They didn’t get frustrated driving around in circles looking for a spot,” she said.
While there are two free parking garages nearby, some businesses have expressed concerns. One restaurant, which declined to comment on camera, said two hours is not long enough for their lunch rush, especially with limited parking in front of the establishment.
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Muise acknowledged the parking limit may not work for all businesses but believes it helps certain groups, including those with disabilities.
“These spots would be full, and then customers who are handicapped, they can’t walk from the garage. I think it’s been beneficial to the city,” she said. “I think two is OK because it’s actually getting people in and out. So, the turnover is higher.”
The two-hour parking limits are enforced Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Muise said weekends are less congested, benefiting retail and restaurants.
“On the weekends, it’s better for the retail and the restaurants. You don’t have as many offices that are here, you know? Like the public defender’s office. Their employees are here, and other businesses like the title company have employees here Monday through Friday. So, on the weekend, I don’t think it’s as congested,” she said.
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The city of Fort Pierce has not yet responded to inquiries about the number of citations issued.