St. Cloud Proposes Free Evening and Weekend Parking Downtown in 2026 Overhaul

(KNSI) – Downtown St. Cloud visitors will soon find it easier on their wallets to park while they enjoy an evening out or weekend shopping.

The city is floating a significant overhaul of its downtown parking system that would make all city-owned parking ramps and surface lots free after 5:00 p.m. on weekdays and all day on weekends beginning in 2026.

According to the city, the 2026 parking pilot program would immediately open up 2,966 free parking spaces during peak evening and weekend hours, making it more convenient for residents to dine out, attend events, and shop downtown without worrying about parking costs.

To offset financial loss from offering free evening and weekend parking, the city is proposing adjustments to other parking rates. On-street meter parking, which encourages turnover of prime curb-side
spaces, will see a slight increase from $1.00 per hour to $1.50 per hour. Parking permit rates would see a modest 10% jump to support ongoing operational expenses and facility maintenance.

Hourly rates for parking in downtown surface lots and ramps during weekday daytime hours will remain unchanged at $1 per hour.

The city is also proposing to increase the fine for a parking violation. The expired meter ticket would go from $15 to $20, with an escalating late fee structure. If approved, there would be a $40 late fee after 10 days, an additional $20 after 20 days, and another $25 after 30 days. Unpaid fines after 30 days may be sent to the State of Minnesota Revenue Capture Program for collection.

City officials say the changes were developed with community input as a way to encourage more people to come downtown.

A public hearing and final vote on the proposed ordinance is expected to take place on December 1st. The proposals are part of the city’s proposed enterprise funds budget.

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