Lewiston City Council Approves Removal of Parking Meters for Time Limited Parking

In a recent City Council meeting held on June 17, 2025, in Lewiston, Maine, significant changes to the city's parking regulations were discussed and approved, aiming to enhance accessibility and support local businesses. The council unanimously voted to remove antiquated parking meters and replace them with free, time-limited parking across various streets in the downtown area.

The proposed amendments include establishing 30-minute parking on odd-numbered sides of Lisbon Street from Chestnut to Main Street, one-hour parking on even-numbered sides from Maple to Main Street, and two-hour parking on Canal and Park Streets. Additionally, specific areas in front of City Hall and Park Pine will have designated short-term parking to facilitate quick visits. The changes are part of a broader effort to improve parking availability and convenience for customers frequenting local businesses.

Sergeant Joey Brown highlighted the need for these updates, noting that the existing meters were outdated and cumbersome, often requiring coins that are no longer commonly used. The sentiment from the business community indicated a strong desire for more structured parking options to better accommodate customers, whether they are dining or running quick errands.

Councilor Chittum raised concerns about an obsolete section of the parking schedule and suggested a phased approach to meter removal, starting with less busy areas to ease enforcement challenges. Other council members expressed support for the changes, emphasizing their potential to boost downtown commerce. However, some voiced concerns about the capacity of the enforcement team to manage the new parking regulations effectively.

In addition to the meter removal, the council also approved amendments to the municipal parking fees policy, allowing non-monthly users to enjoy the first two hours of parking in garages for free and eliminating fees after 5 PM on weekdays. This initiative aims to encourage more visitors to utilize the city's parking facilities, further supporting local businesses.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to implement these changes promptly, with plans for a marketing campaign to inform the public about the new parking benefits. The council's actions reflect a proactive approach to enhancing the downtown experience, addressing both the needs of residents and the local economy.