New parking meters to be tested in downtown Iowa City

Iowa City will conduct a two-week trial this month of new parking meter styles downtown.

Equipment from five companies will be tested April 15-26 to help determine the best options for new meters, according to a news release from the Iowa City Downtown District.

Parking is a common complaint of downtown patrons, and the city is considering changes to the cost of on- and off-street parking and how payment is made, among other ideas.

The meters in the pilot project will be in the block bordered by Iowa Avenue and Clinton, Washington and Dubuque streets. Representatives from the city and each company will be on the streets and available for questions and help, according to the release.

There will be a variety of styles, including single and multi-space meters, and the city wants feedback on what would be the best choice for Iowa City.

For more information, contact Iowa City Transportation Director Chris O'Brien at

chris-obrien@iowa-city.org.