Committee sets downtown workforce RAP hourly fee at $0.30; app transaction fee remains separate

The Portsmouth fee committee voted May 13 to set the downtown workforce RAP on‑street parking hourly rate at $0.30 per hour, excluding the parking app transaction fee, and limited the RAP scope to the single street named in the RAP program.

Chair (S1) moved the motion, saying the committee should set a modest hourly rate for the downtown workforce pilot. The motion was seconded and approved. Staff (S3) and members discussed program history — roughly six years in place — and noted the program currently serves about 120 downtown worker users; members said the RAP spot idea originated from input from the EDC and the Chamber during outreach with restaurant and business owners.

Committee member (S3) clarified the mechanics: the Foundry garage requires purchases in 10‑hour chunks, so the wrap area requires an hourly rate and the transaction fee will be charged on top of the $0.30 hourly amount. Members asked staff to monitor usage and report quarterly; if the wrap area becomes flooded with workers, rates can be adjusted later.

Members also noted a minor inconsistency in the spoken transcript about the street name in the RAP area — speakers referred to it as "Parade Ave" and "Parrot Avenue" — and confirmed the RAP program language refers to a single designated street rather than citywide coverage. The committee said it will present its verbal report to council and the fee recommendation will appear as an amendment in the fee section of the budget for council consideration on June 8.

The committee closed the item after approving the $0.30 hourly rate and asking staff to include the change in the budget amendment.