CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Parking violations in Charlotte may soon get more expensive.
Right now, if you park illegally at certain spots you can be fined $25. On Monday, the city council could raise it to $100.
“We are trying to find ways to keep our pedestrians safe,” Dimple Ajmera, a Charlotte City Councilwoman said.
This would affect people who park illegally on a sidewalk.
“It's rough because especially with sidewalks and somebody with a disability… that could be in their way and them having to have to go out more in the streets could be dangerous,” Sam Gainer, an uptown resident, said.
This would also include anyone who parks illegally on bike paths, or loading zones and takes up an EV charging space.
You can also be cited if you block a streetcar from being able to pass which can lead to delays. Its delays Elisabeth Shaver said she experienced firsthand.
“Someone has their car pulled over, would have their hazard lights on, and trying to deliver something or pick something up. It can set people back,” Shaver said. “People actually have to use that to get back and forth to work.”
Sustain Charlotte reports people who walk or bike are involved in 3% of all crashes but account for about 33% of traffic deaths.
The higher fines are meant to discourage illegal behavior.
“$100 is a little steep… I think $50 would be good to start,” Gainer said. “It’s enough to deter people I would think.”
“$100, yes absolutely,” Nicholas Stevens, an Uptown resident, said.
If approved, Ajmera said she’ll ensure it is enforced.
“This is a step in the right direction where it will deter or it will send a strong message that we take this very seriously,” Ajmera said.