By Adam Feller, PTMP
Within the evolution of the parking meter and metered parking space, I find it settling that the soul of the metered space remains intact – ease congestion, allow parking egress and support customers to find a space to park. The concept supports both locals making visits to their favorite restaurants or businesses as well as folks coming in from out of town to seek the spoils of a new and wonderous treasure. Regardless of the technology that the meter has or will have, the initial goal still holds sway. As time goes on, many of the factors will continue to change; more shared spaces, bike lanes, parklets and ongoing review of what makes the most sense as usage for curbside commerce. Though we can still find some common ground in the history of the parking meter. It’s recorded that on the opening day of the first parking meter in Oklahoma City in 1935, a man paid his nickel and tied up his horse at the meter pole. Another group paid the fee and set up a table and chairs to hold a card game for their paid hour. Innovation, it seems, has always had a dynamic life at the curbside and will continue to keep mobility on the path forward.
Adam Feller, PTMP, is an Operations Manager for LAZ Parking. Adam can be reached at Afeller@lazparking.com.
