PARC Proposes Parking Meters on Bardstown Road, Business Owners Oppose

Proposal for Metered Parking on Bardstown Road Sparks Debate

A recent proposal to introduce metered parking along Bardstown Road has ignited a significant debate among local residents and business owners. The plan, which was first introduced by the Parking Authority of River City (PARC), aims to install meters in 328 spots along a 2.3-mile stretch of Bardstown Road and Baxter Avenue, as well as several side streets. This initiative is part of a broader effort to generate an estimated $285,000 annually for PARC.

However, the proposal has not been met with universal support. Many residents and business owners are concerned that the introduction of paid parking could have negative consequences for both the community and local businesses. Audrey Arcelli, owner of Ms. Audrey's Crafting Emporium, expressed her worries about the potential impact on her business. She believes that families with young children and elderly customers may be deterred from visiting her shop if they face the added challenge of finding and paying for parking.

“It’s going to affect the number of people that come into the shop,” Arcelli said. “With foot traffic already declining, adding the burden of paid parking could really hurt our business.”

Rob Willy, a longtime resident of the Highlands area and owner of Brown Dog Woodworking, also voiced his concerns. He noted that the idea of implementing meters was initially discussed at a Highlands Commerce Guild meeting but later became a more concrete proposal. Willy argues that this move could place additional pressure on existing businesses, making it harder for them to attract customers.

PARC Interim Director Gerard Howell acknowledged the feedback received and stated that the agency is still finalizing its plans. He mentioned that once a detailed plan is developed, it will be reviewed by relevant Metro departments and presented to the District 8 councilperson.

District 8 Metro Councilman Ben Reno-Weber emphasized that no official decision has been made yet. In a statement, he highlighted the need for a comprehensive plan that considers changes in technology, the rise of private sector players, and the importance of supporting small businesses and dense housing, especially along transit corridors like Bardstown Road.

The potential impact of the proposal extends beyond businesses. Community members fear that implementing paid parking could lead to increased congestion as customers seek alternative parking spots on already crowded neighborhood streets. Rob Willy pointed out that this shift could result in metered spaces being used on smaller secondary roads, further complicating the situation for residents.

Despite the concerns, there is some support for the proposed changes. Shawn Reilly, former president of the Tyler Park Neighborhood Association, believes that the current parking rules on Bardstown Road are confusing and could discourage visitors. He argued that parking reforms would make the area more welcoming and navigable for both residents and visitors.

“There’s nothing more frustrating than circling Bardstown Road searching for a parking space only to be thwarted by a jumble of free spots, 2-hour only spots, and traditional meters that leave you guessing whether you’re legal or liable for a ticket,” Reilly wrote.

For Willy, the issue goes beyond just parking meters. He believes that Bardstown Road has experienced an economic decline over the years, with some long-standing institutions closing and storefronts remaining vacant. He advocates for the city to appoint an economic leader for the corridor to help attract new businesses and development.

“Someone who wakes up every day to say ‘How do we attract businesses along the corridor and what actions need to happen in order to do that?’” he said.