Sat. September 27, 2014
Chicago, IL -
Starting this Sunday drivers will have to pay for parking on most commercial streets in Chicago's Lakeview neighborhood, including Boystown and Wrigleyville.
Alderman Tom Tunney of the 44th ward says the move is to further drive the vitality of small businesses in Lakeview by ensuring the turnover of parking spaces.
"Beginning on Sunday, Sept. 28, drivers will need to pay for parking on Sunday on some commercial streets in the 44th Ward between the hours of 10 a.m. and 8 p.m.," said Tunney. "Sunday is one of the busiest shopping days for our small businesses. The continual turnover of meters will help our vibrant business districts, which are ranked among the best in Chicago."
Tunney says some drivers have been taking advantage of the free parking on Sundays, leaving their cars in one spot until Monday morning, which hurt small businesses that need parking turnover to thrive.
"In addition to Lakeview, the free parking had a negative impact on businesses districts in Lincoln Park, Wicker Park and Bucktown," he added.
According to Tunney, the change came at the request of business owners and Chambers of Commerce from across the city.
This week, CMP/LAZ Parking changed all the signs in the area to indicated 7-day paid parking and beginning Sunday, Sept. 28, commercial street parking - including along North Halsted St. - will no longer be free on Sundays between the hours of 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. This will not be in effect on residential streets.
Related: List of meters that will be affected (PDF)
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