Parking meter

Parking Meter Front

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Parking meter-1940

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multi-space parking meter

ParkingMeter

Seattle - Worker emptying parking meter, 1960

Parking meters are devices used for the collection of money in exchange for the right to park a vehicle in a particular place for a limited amount of time. Installed by municipalities or private owners in both streets and parking lots, parking meters help manage limited parking spaces, reduce congestion, and generate revenue.

History

The first parking meter, known as the Park-O-Meter No. 1, was installed in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, in 1935, invented by Carl C. Magee. The introduction of parking meters was aimed at solving the parking congestion problem by encouraging turnover and generating revenue for the city. The concept quickly spread to other cities as they saw the benefits of regulated parking.

Operation

Modern parking meters vary in their operation but generally require the user to pay with coins, credit cards, or via a mobile app. Upon payment, the meter displays the amount of time purchased. Some advanced models use sensors or are networked to allow for remote monitoring and payment.

Types

There are several types of parking meters, including:

• Single-space meters: These are traditional models that control one parking space each. They are mounted on a pole and located next to the parking space.
• Multi-space meters: These control multiple parking spaces and can be more cost-effective and efficient than single-space meters. Users typically enter their parking space number and pay for the time they need.
• Smart meters: These are equipped with features such as credit card payment options, touch screens, and wireless communication for remote payment and monitoring.

Benefits and Criticisms

Parking meters are praised for their ability to manage parking resources efficiently, reduce traffic congestion by encouraging turnover, and generate revenue for municipalities. However, they are also subject to criticism, including concerns over their impact on local businesses, the burden on low-income individuals, and the potential for increasing traffic as drivers search for available metered spaces.

Future Trends

The future of parking meters includes the integration of more advanced technologies, such as license plate recognition and the ability to adjust pricing based on demand. These innovations aim to improve the efficiency of parking management and the user experience.

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