Cedar Rapids to re-enforce downtown parking policies

More people and business returning downtown means a need for more parking spaces.

That's exactly what the city has in mind.

Beginning Monday, police will begin re-enforcing the two-hour time limit on the city's downtown meters.

“The policy's been on the books for quite some time,” said Cedar Rapids Downtown District Operations Director Vanessa Rogers. “Police just haven't been enforcing the policy aggressively.”

Roger's said she sees the re-enforcement as a good sign for the city, meaning more people are returning to the downtown area.

The city aims for fifteen percent vacancy of spots, so customer parking is available for quick-trip customers.

Rogers said she believed those that regularly violate and plug the meters will be the ones to immediately notice the changes in enforcement.

The policy states that after two hours, or maximum time on the meter, the driver must move their vehicle to a different street. The car cannot be moved a simple one or two spaces, it must be a different block, she said.

If visitors wish to stay longer than the allowed time, they are encouraged to move to a different location or parking facility.

Police said they will be watching closely and ticketing accordingly.