Downtown Raleigh parking rates increasing on Aug. 1

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- Drivers will pay more to park at city-owned parking facilities in downtown Raleigh beginning Saturday as the city implements its first parking rate increase since 2018.

The changes affect city-owned parking decks, on-street parking and monthly parking permits. City officials say the rate increases are intended to help offset costs including security, maintenance, repairs and improvements needed to keep the parking system safe, clean and reliable.

Under the new rates, on-street parking will increase to $1.50 per hour. City-owned non-event parking decks, including the Wilmington Street Garage, will increase from $2 per hour to $3 per hour.

The city's free two-hour parking program at participating downtown parking decks will remain in place. The first two hours will continue to be free Monday through Friday at all non-event decks, and parking at those decks will remain free on weekends.

Some visitors said the higher rates could affect their decisions about visiting downtown.

"It's just another reason to not come here and to go to the other parts of Raleigh," said Jason Hingerton of Raleigh.

Hingerton also questioned whether the increase could discourage downtown activity.

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"That just seems like a wrong decision in a time when downtown needs more people coming in and having more reasons to come," he said.

Others said they may adapt by seeking out lower-cost or free parking options.

"Maybe like picking and choosing which garage we go to," said Estefany Bautista of Smithfield.

Hingerton said the continuation of free parking for short visits is a positive feature.

"Having the parking available for 2 hours is great because it reduces friction for people coming into town," he said.

Bautista said she expects to continue using locations that offer free parking.

"We try new restaurants or just try new things, like today, we're going to a new park," Bautista said. "I know some parking you can park free for two hours, so we'll probably use that."

Still, some visitors expressed concern that higher parking costs could reduce foot traffic downtown.

"I think that's good for the city where you're having people here. And that's what the city needs is foot traffic," Hingerton said.

In addition to hourly parking increases, monthly parking permits will rise from $125 to $135 per month beginning Saturday. The changes do not affect privately owned parking facilities.

The City of Raleigh has more details about the increases here.