New Parking Rates will Go into Effect in Downtown Ferndale on Monday, May 2, 2022

April 18, 2022

New parking rates for Ferndale's on-street meters, surface lots, and The dot parking deck will go into effect beginning Monday, May 2, 2022. Ferndale City Council adopted the new rates as part of the annual budget process based on recommendations from financial professionals and City staff. This action represents the second increase in fifteen years and aligns Ferndale's rates with several neighboring communities.

Parking revenues go directly to the management, maintenance, and improvements of parking programs and services. The pandemic has caused over $2 million in revenue losses for the Ferndale parking system since March of 2020. During that same year, the annual $1.2 million debt service payments for the construction of the first downtown parking garage began. Demand for a downtown parking deck had been identified by the business community for over a decade. The dot parking development now offers beautiful streetscapes, well-lit parking spaces, public art, and new retail spaces which will be activated this summer.

These rate increases were calculated based on the parking system's budget to help ensure that users continue paying for the cost of parking services without support from the City's General Fund and avoid defaulting on debt service payments. With increased revenues, the system can also begin to reinvest in needed improvements and repairs.

The new rate structure is designed to increase turnover for heavily parked on-street spaces, which will provide more convenience for drivers who will be able to park closer to their destination. Beginning in May, hourly rates will be lower for off-street facilities, and a premium will be charged for on-street parking. Convenient payments continue to be available through the ParkFerndale mobile app and more pay stations that were installed this spring.

“The City of Ferndale now maintains a 377-space parking deck, 857 surface lot spaces, and 315 metered spaces,” said Joe Gacioch, Ferndale City Manager. “Consideration for this rate increase began last year when parking revenues dropped dramatically due to the pandemic. While revenue has rebounded partially, we continue to experience a budget shortfall and must take action to ensure Ferndale can meet our service obligations.”

“Ferndale is striving to create complete streets that offer safe, convenient vehicle parking, opportunities for alternative modes of transportation, and enjoyable pedestrian experiences,” said Lena Stevens, DDA Executive Director. “This rate increase ensures that we can invest in necessary projects such as resurfacing, lighting, safety repairs, and ultimately placemaking projects that enhance the downtown experience.”

The following chart reflects the new parking rates: