Fort Pierce city commissioners have approved plans to implement paid parking at three popular beach parks: Jaycee, Jetty, and South Causeway parks. The decision, finalized during a recent city commission meeting, aims to generate revenue for park maintenance and address parking turnover concerns raised by local businesses.
Paid Parking Implementation and Revenue Estimates
The city has contracted with PCI Municipal Services to manage the new parking system. According to city Director of Community Response Peggy Arraiz, the contract is nearly complete, with only minor details pending. Proposed parking rates include $3 per hour, $20 per day, and an annual pass option priced at $60. These charges are expected to generate approximately $900,000 annually, with around $585,000 going directly to Fort Pierce.
Payments will be accepted via kiosks and mobile apps, allowing users to conveniently extend parking durations remotely.
Federal Grant Conditions Influence Decision
Initially, city officials considered exempting Fort Pierce residents from parking fees. However, due to a federal beach nourishment grant secured by St. Lucie County in 1998, Jetty Park must provide equal beach access to all visitors. County officials expressed concern that offering free parking exclusively to residents could jeopardize this funding.
Consequently, city commissioners opted to charge all visitors equally across the three parks, but with the provision of an affordable annual pass to ease the financial burden on frequent users.
Addressing Maintenance and Local Business Concerns
Currently, Fort Pierce allocates approximately $303,000 annually for park upkeep. Commissioner Michael Broderick emphasized that this amount is insufficient, citing ongoing deterioration and the need for significant capital improvements.
“We’re not generating one penny of revenue to offset our costs,” Broderick stated. “Our general fund cannot continue to underwrite persons outside of our community using our assets for free.”
Mayor Linda Hudson acknowledged the unpopularity of the paid parking initiative but stressed its necessity. Hudson highlighted that paid parking would also address local business concerns by increasing turnover in limited parking spaces on South Hutchinson Island.
Community Reactions and Next Steps
Commissioner Arnold Gaines expressed understanding of residents’ frustrations over the new fees, advocating for a special parking permit specifically for St. Lucie County residents, even if it involves a nominal charge.
“They don’t want to pay every time they go to the beach, to park at their own park where they’re already paying taxes,” Gaines explained.
The city commission did not finalize the vote during the recent meeting. The annual pass option and other details will be incorporated into the contract, which will return for formal approval at an upcoming session.
For more information about beach nourishment funding and federal guidelines, visit the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
Frequently Asked Questions About Fort Pierce Paid Parking
Which Fort Pierce parks will have paid parking?
Jaycee, Jetty, and South Causeway parks are the three locations included in the new paid parking initiative.
How much will parking cost at these parks?
Proposed rates are $3 per hour, $20 per day, or an annual pass available for $60.
Why is Fort Pierce implementing paid parking?
The city aims to generate funds for park maintenance and improve parking turnover, addressing concerns from local businesses and city officials about upkeep costs.
Will residents have to pay for parking?
Yes, due to federal grant conditions, all visitors, including residents, will be charged. However, an affordable annual pass option will be available.
Port St Lucie Talks
