Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did you change the parking program?

A: As you may have noticed, Downtown Redwood City has changed quite a bit over the past few years. We knew that adding a new cinema, new restaurants, new shops, a new public plaza, and dozens of special events would bring a lot more people downtown, all of them competing for parking spaces. The demand-based parking program was implemented to reduce cruising and traffic congestion. Click here to view the comprehensive parking plan.

Q: Why did you upgrade to the new meters?

A: We held a series of workshops with the Downtown community and discovered that the old meters were considered inconvenient and unattractive by many people. The new meters were selected to reduce sidewalk clutter, to add payment options (bills, credit cards, etc), and to allow people to add more time without walking all the way back to their car, among other benefits. Over 1,000 people a day take advantage of the new credit card and bill payment options and about 15,000 successful transactions are completed every single week. Click here for tips on how to use the new meters.

Q: What are the meter prices?

A: The hourly meter rates are $0.25 or $0.50 during hours of operation. Click here for a map showing prices and schedule.

Q: Why are some areas (such as Broadway) more expensive than others?

A: We found that if very desirable areas are priced the same as areas further away (or if the curbside parking is more expensive than garage parking), they get too crowded and don't turn over, forcing you to circle the block over and over or park further away than you want to. By pricing the best parking spaces higher we can make sure that there is usually a space when and where you want it. And if you want a bargain, there is always less expensive parking close by. Click here for a price map. Click here to learn how effective pricing creates open spaces in prime areas and creates other benefits.

Q: Do I have to pay for a whole hour even if I'm just making a quick visit?

A: Not at all. All meters, new- and old-style, take all coins except pennies. If you only need a few minutes, simply pop in a nickel or a dime.

Q: Do I have to stand in line to use the new meter closest to my car?

A: No. You may pay for any numbered parking space at any of the new meters, so if there is a line at one machine, simply go to the next one on the way to your destination. Or, you can pay by phone!

Q: Do I have to put my receipt on my dash?

A: No. The receipt is for your convenience. It shows your expiration time, so you no longer need to wonder "when does my meter expire?" It is also handy for adding time if you need to extend your visit.

Q: Do the new meters give change?

A: No. If you put a dollar bill in, you will get a dollar's worth of parking. There are no refunds and no change, just like the old meters.

Q: How do you enforce the new meters?

A: The parking enforcement officers print a report at each meter that shows which parking stalls are paid for and which aren't. If an expired stall has a car in it, a citation will be issued.

Q: Has removing time limits caused parking to get crowded?

A: No. Because of our innovative rate structure, the most desirable parking areas are turning over better than ever, despite the removal of the time limits. (Click here to learn why it works). So now you can park where you want and stay as long as you'd like without worry. Need more time? Just add more. We won't chalk your tires and force you to move your car.

Q: Where is the free parking?

A: On Saturdays, the whole outer area of Downtown (Marshall Street and beyond) is free. This is only a block or two from the Downtown core. The metered areas are free after 6:00 pm and all day Sunday. And remember, if you see a movie be sure to have Century 20 Theatres validate your parking ticket for 4 hours of free parking in the Marshall Garage, Middlefield Lot, or Jefferson Garage. Click here for a map of free parking.

Q: Is there enough parking in the Downtown area?

A: There is! We've studied this issue inside and out, and we have found that there always has been and still will be enough parking Downtown. And we have a plan in place to ensure that we continue to have enough parking as we grow. Best of all, our pricing strategy keeps a few spaces open even in prime areas, so that you don't have to circle around Broadway all night looking for a space if that's where you want to park.

Q: Why does the City have parking meters?

A: Parking meters are the most effective way to make sure that parking spaces "turn over" so that parking areas don't get congested. This ensures that as many people as possible get a chance to park. In a lively, compact, walkable area like Downtown Redwood City metered parking keep things working. What are the alternatives?

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