North Kentucky News

The Covington Motor Vehicle Parking Authority is introducing new parking meters to improve convenience for drivers in the city's business districts. The new devices will accept credit cards, coins, and payments through various apps such as Passport Parking and Cincy EZPark. The installation of these meters aims to simplify the parking process, which has been described as confusing and frustrating by many.

Kyle Snyder, executive director of the authority, highlighted the need for modernization. "We want to make it as convenient as possible," he stated. He also emphasized that accommodating different payment preferences was crucial: “We realize that some people are very tech-savvy, while others not so much,” Snyder said. “We want to meet people where they are and make it easy for everyone.”

In addition to diverse payment options, the new meters feature larger screens designed to improve communication with users. These screens will clearly indicate whether payment is required at any given time and eliminate issues such as fogging that affected older models.

The initiative includes the installation of over 400 meters across Covington, along with several kiosks. Some areas will see a transition from individual meters to kiosks in an effort to reduce clutter on busy streets like Scott Boulevard and Park Avenue.

Furthermore, these new meters come equipped with solar-powered batteries to enhance reliability. The changes are part of ongoing efforts by the parking authority, which recently launched a new website and branding strategy aimed at enhancing user experience.

Snyder pointed out two main reasons for maintaining on-street meters: generating revenue for infrastructure investment and supporting local businesses by ensuring turnover in parking spaces. "Many businesses – especially small businesses like coffee shops, diners, bars... rely on spur-of-the-moment decisions made by drivers," he explained.