Carmel Village Council discusses persistent parking issues and potential solutions

Carmel-by-the-Sea officials are taking steps to address the long-standing parking challenges in the village, as highlighted during the City Council Special Committee Meeting on June 2, 2025. Council members discussed the need for a comprehensive review of parking space lengths and configurations, emphasizing the importance of expert input from public works personnel, particularly Rob Culber, who has extensive experience in traffic safety.

The meeting revealed that parking issues have persisted in Carmel since at least the late 1930s, with council members referencing a wealth of historical documentation on previous attempts to resolve the problem. Despite the ongoing challenges, there was a sense of optimism regarding new ideas presented during the meeting. Council members expressed support for implementing practical solutions in a timely manner, while also recognizing the necessity of public outreach to engage the community in the decision-making process.

As the discussion progressed, it became clear that while parking will always be a challenge in Carmel, the council is committed to exploring innovative solutions and involving residents in the conversation. The next steps will likely include community meetings to gather public feedback and refine proposed strategies, aiming to enhance parking accessibility for both residents and visitors alike.