Bellevue considers charging for street parking amid growing demand

Bellevue city officials are exploring the introduction of paid street parking to manage the escalating demand for parking spaces in downtown and adjacent neighborhoods. The Bellevue Transportation Commission is currently assessing a proposal that would affect around 350 parking spaces, aiming to alleviate congestion caused by vehicles exceeding the two-hour parking limit. A survey revealed that over 25% of parked vehicles were non-compliant with this limit, exacerbating parking issues. Local residents expressed their frustrations, with some stating that additional charges could discourage them from frequenting the area. The proposed pricing model is expected to be demand-based, similar to existing systems in Seattle, where rates vary by time and location. Business leaders, such as Patrick Bannon of the Downtown Bellevue Association, advocate for a collaborative approach to ensure the parking changes enhance accessibility for customers. While some believe that paid parking could improve turnover and availability, concerns remain about its potential impact on local businesses. The city is tasked with balancing increased demand for on-street parking with the needs of both visitors and local establishments.