Get More Quarters: Ames Plans To Increase Meter Rates

AMES, IA — Parking at one of the 921 meters in Ames will cost at least double next summer when hourly rates increase for the first time in more than two decades. The price hike received unanimous approval of the Ames City Council last week.

The Ames Tribune reported that rates were last changed in 1993 and a boost in the hourly rate now is needed to help pay for improvements to the city parking system. The change goes into effect in July across the city.

Current rates are 20 cents to 50 cents an hour, depending on location. Meter rates will change to $1 per hour for meters with a two-hour parking limit, 75 cents an hour at four-hour-limit meters, and 50 cents an hour for 10-hour parking. In addition, monthly rental of parking spaces will rise to $50 from the current rate of $30 or $35.

The increases are expected to raise more than $573,000 annually, the Tribune reported. The story also said the City Council also will look at implementing a program that would allow drivers to use a credit card to pay for parking instead of needing coins.

Ames parking rates apply daily except Sundays and holidays.

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