Categories: CommunityEvents/What's HappeningNews

Knoxville Introduces New ParkMobile Parking System

Downtown Knoxville featuring new ParkMobile parking signs

News Summary

Knoxville is set to upgrade its downtown parking by replacing traditional meters with the ParkMobile payment system. Starting this weekend, the old meters will be removed, and new signs will guide users on how to navigate the mobile app for parking fees. Additionally, a discounted parking program for eligible downtown workers will launch on March 28, 2025, offering affordable options. Changes in parking limits and fines will also take place. These updates aim to enhance convenience and adapt to modern payment preferences.

Exciting Changes Coming to Knoxville’s Downtown Parking!

Get ready, Knoxville! Our city is gearing up for a big shift in downtown parking as it prepares to say goodbye to those old-fashioned parking meters and hello to a shiny new ParkMobile payment system. If you love the convenience of your phone, you’re going to love what’s in store!

Out with the Old, In with the New

As of this weekend, all parking meters in downtown Knoxville will be completely removed. Yes, that’s right! Gone. And in their place, we’ll see the ParkMobile payment system take over. This change means new signs will pop up around the area, guiding you on how to use the new payment options, so keep your eyes peeled.

From March 10, 2025, new parking rates will officially kick in; on-street parking will have a grace period until March 28, 2025, so don’t worry about tickets just yet. This grace period means you’ll have time to get used to the new system without the fear of getting fined for a little extra time.

Good News for Downtown Workers!

Now, here’s some even better news for those of you who work in downtown Knoxville! A new discounted parking program will roll out on March 28, 2025. If your annual income is at or below 80% of the city’s median income, you can apply for a reduced parking pass costing you just $1.80 per day. Sounds like a deal to us!

These discounted parking passes will be available in the Old City North Lot, located in the 300 block of Jackson Avenue, as well as at the State Street Garage. And for all downtown workers, regardless of income, the Civic Coliseum and Auditorium Garage A will offer a super affordable $20 monthly rate!

New Parking Regulations and Rates

Now, just a heads up: some changes will occur regarding parking limits. A 10-hour parking zone will remain on South Central between Summit Hill and Main, while all other 10-hour zones are being reduced to a 4-hour limit. Keep this in mind when planning your downtown adventures!

If you happen to rack up any parking violations, you’ll want to take note. The fines for on-street parking violations will be $25, which also includes a $1 State of Tennessee Litigation tax. If you’re a bit forgetful and don’t pay within 10 days, the fine will rise to $34. Parking in a fire lane? That will set you back a cool $35.

Smart Parking Made Easy

The ParkMobile app is here to simplify your parking experience. With this tool, you can pay right from your phone and even set reminders about when your parking is expiring. No more rushing back to the meter; you’ll have your trusted device guiding you!

On-street parking will be charged from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday through Saturday. The rates for parking are increasing slightly, with two-hour zones moving from $1.50 to $2 per hour, and four-hour zones from $0.30 to $1 per hour. But hey, don’t fret too much! Free parking will still be available during the nights from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. and on weekends. Just keep in mind new charges at Market Square Garage, which will require a $3 fee on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

A Positive Step Forward?

All these changes come after city officials discovered that the current parking system was financially unsustainable. The goal here is to not only boost revenue but also enhance convenience for all users. However, it seems that mixing technology with accessibility has raised some eyebrows within our community, as not everyone feels comfortable with tech. But change can be good, right?

As Knoxville transitions into this new parking reality, we’ll be watching closely to see how everyone adjusts. Will the ParkMobile solution take off or will it create more questions than answers? Either way, it seems that a new chapter in Knoxville’s downtown parking saga is just around the corner!