ORLANDO, Fla. – A newly approved parking rate increase in downtown Orlando is drawing criticism from drivers and business owners who fear the changes will hurt local businesses and discourage visitors from coming downtown.
The Orlando City Council voted May 11 to approve higher parking rates that are expected to take effect in October. City leaders said the changes follow a parking study that found Orlando’s rates were outdated and lower than comparable cities. Officials said the increase is intended to improve parking availability and turnover in busy areas.
But some downtown business owners say the higher costs will only add to existing challenges.
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“It’s frustrating as a business owner downtown to see the city do something like that,” said Michael Vacirca, the owner of Anthem Orlando.
The approved changes include most on-street parking increasing by $1 per hour from the current $1 amount, off-street parking rates rising from $15 to $20 and event parking increasing from $10 in garage to $20.
City officials estimate the changes will generate an additional $5.5 million annually to support parking operations and future expansion projects.
Business owners, however, worry the added expense will keep customers away.
“We are already seeing a major reduction in foot traffic daily, and I imagine that when people see this, they’re going to just not come downtown anymore,” said Vacirca.
Vacira has started a petition opposing the rate hike and supporting community affordability to keep business alive.
Restaurant workers in the area shared similar concerns, saying customers already struggle to find affordable parking.
“People here are always asking where to park,” one restaurant employee said. “They’re going to be less inclined to park around here and come to the restaurant if it’s more expensive to park.”
Along Church Street, several storefronts already sit vacant, raising concerns among some business owners about the future of downtown activity.
“So if locals see another dollar or two, that’s going to stop them from coming,” Vacirca added.
Vacirca has also started a petition opposing the parking increase, hoping city leaders reconsider the plan before it takes effect.
The city is expected to vote in June on parking times and penalties connected to the updated system. Orlando officials have also promoted alternative parking options, including an app designed to help drivers locate free parking downtown.