For the last two months, parking in downtown Lexington was free for two hours. Monday, the meter fees will return, but the revenue will be put back into the community.
"We thought a softer way to introduce the fees again would be to donate that money," said Lexington Parking Authority Executive Director Gary Means.
From now until the end of the month, all revenue from LEXPARK meters will go to God's Pantry Food Bank and the Bluegrass Community Foundation's COVID-19 response fund. This includes cash, credit card, and payments through the pay by phone app, which is recommended for those worried about touching public surfaces.
"As much as we would be diligent about cleaning, as soon as someone touches it the moment we walk away, it probably needs to be cleaned again, right? So, it's a free app than anybody can go to their app store and download, and you can pay the meter right from your car," said Means.
The Lexington Parking Authority also implemented free 15-minute curbside pickup parking for restaurants over the last couple of months. Those are staying for now.
"We have worked with over 22 restaurants to establish about 24 of those free 15-minute curbside spaces, and we'll work with anyone who wants to reach out to us," said Means.
To set up a curbside parking space by your restaurant, you can email info@lexpark.org.
