30/05/2024
The Town of Taos is modernizing its paid parking infrastructure by installing new meters and payment kiosks in June.
The change will upgrade the 284 paid parking spots and convert 209 free parking locations into paid parking for a total of 493 paid parking locations. A new parking fee structure will be introduced with a planned launch of the new parking system to go live in June.
“The current coin-operated system was installed in the late 1980s and 75% of the system doesn’t work. The Town is installing a modern pay-to-park system similar to what residents and visitors encounter in Santa Fe and Albuquerque,” said Community Relations Director John Rodriguez. “The coin-operated meters served their purpose, and while there is a certain charm in putting a quarter in the slot to pay for parking, the town has to move into the future.”
During the week of June 5th, parking kiosks will be installed. An additional 50 signs will be installed directing customers on how to pay by phone. Public Works are installing the new system from now until June 10th. The town has already dismantled up to 80% of the existing meters as of Friday, May 24th.
Users can pay either through cash or credit card at one of the fifteen parking kiosks located around town or through an app, which they will be able to scan a QR code and be directed to a payment processing system.
On June 10th, the paid parking system is planned to go live across all parking lots. But full implementation could change.
Additionally, to make it easier for RVs and large vehicles to park, there will be an option for full-day parking rates without the hassle of drivers constantly checking their parking meter.
To track and monitor those who haven’t paid for parking, a parking patrol officer will be able to quickly scan license plates from an all-electric F150 Ford Lightning without having to leave their vehicle. This creates a safe working environment for the officer who can remain in their vehicle while quickly monitoring the parking lots in an environmentally friendly vehicle.
The parking lots that will move from free to paid parking include Loretto Parking Lot on Cam. de la Placita, next to Our Lady of Guadalupe; Couse Pasture Parking Lot on Kit Carson Road; McCarthy Parking Lot on the east side of Paseo del Pueblo Norte; and the Bedford Lane Parking Lot.
“With the removal of the parking meters, the Town is beautifying our historic downtown with a simpler and easier way to pay for parking,” said Mr. Rodriguez. “And our goal is for the new system to help pay for parking infrastructure improvements.”
New parking rates will be discussed at a future Taos Town Council meeting.
Paid parking will be in effect from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday to Saturday, but Sundays will remain free to park. During special events, the town is evaluating charging a special event all-day parking fee to manage the demand during designated events. During special events, Town Hall and Library Parking will convert into paid parking lots.
The town will keep 250 free parking spaces inside Kit Carson Park, at Town Hall, and along Quesnel Street.
