Salem Considers Hike In Parking Fees

SALEM, MA -- Mayor Kim Driscoll is backing a proposal by the city's Traffic and Parking Commission that would raise parking rates at meters on 12 streets in Salem and extend enforcement hours. In a letter to City Council, which will consider the changes proposed by the commission, Driscoll supported the measures as a way of offsetting the cost of improvements and maintenance of parking facilities.

"Salem’s parking rates have been unadjusted for almost a decade, one of the few city fees to be so unmodified, even though the bulk of these charges are borne by non-residents and despite the fact that over the last few years we have invested heavily in our parking facilities," Driscoll wrote.

In addition to the increases at meters, the commission is recommending that enforcement hours be extended to 8 pm from 6 pm. They are also asking council to approve a plan to charge drivers to park in kiosk lots on Sundays with an exemption for Salem residents. Parking fees are currently not collected on Sundays.

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