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The Covington Motor Vehicle Parking Authority is set to introduce new parking meters in Covington, Kentucky, aimed at enhancing convenience for drivers. The updated meters will allow payment through credit cards and coins, as well as online apps like Passport Parking and Cincy EZPark. Executive Director Kyle Snyder emphasized the importance of accommodating different user preferences: “We realize that some people are very tech-savvy, while others not so much. We want to meet people where they are and make it easy for everyone.”
The new devices feature larger screens designed to improve visibility and communication. These screens will clearly indicate whether payment is required based on the time of day. According to Snyder, “You will no longer have to stand there trying to decipher what you’re seeing.” The meters will maintain a rate of $1.50 per hour with the first 15 minutes free.
In addition to these changes, vendor IPS Group is installing over 400 meters throughout the city along with several kiosks. Some locations in busy areas will see kiosks replacing individual meters to reduce clutter. Furthermore, solar panels will recharge meter batteries, minimizing battery failures.
These improvements follow previous efforts by the parking authority which included launching a new website and branding initiatives last spring. Snyder noted that on-street meters serve two key purposes: generating revenue for infrastructure maintenance and aiding local businesses by ensuring parking turnover.
“Many businesses – especially small businesses like coffee shops, diners, bars, restaurants, and retail shops – rely on spur-of-the-moment decisions made by drivers,” said Snyder. He highlighted that without metered parking management, non-customers might occupy valuable spots needed by businesses.
