Virginia Beach Council explores free parking options for District 7 residents

The Virginia Beach City Council held an informal meeting on February 18, 2025, where discussions centered around the potential implementation of free parking for residents. The meeting highlighted the growing concerns regarding the cost of living and inflation, prompting council members to consider initiatives that could benefit local residents.

One council member expressed strong support for the idea of offering free parking, particularly in District 7, which is near Chesapeake. They emphasized that providing free parking would demonstrate the council's commitment to supporting residents during challenging economic times. The member recalled a previous system where residents could park for free in certain areas by showing their driver's license.

However, clarity was sought regarding the specifics of the proposal. A council member clarified that they were not advocating for immediate changes but were responding to a request from the city council to explore the feasibility of a resident parking rate. The discussion included the possibility of establishing a resident rate of $5 for all-day parking, as suggested by the vice mayor.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further investigate the options for resident parking rates, reflecting the council's ongoing efforts to address community needs and enhance the quality of life for Virginia Beach residents. Further updates on this initiative are expected as the council continues to deliberate on the matter.