Where is the parking in St. Paul?

Losing parking
Downtown St. Paul lost about 250 parking spots, including this lot used by residents of the Market House condominiums, when CHS Field was built. A new study, however, shows that St. Paul has enough parking — people just don't know where to find it.
Jeffrey Thompson | MPR News 2013

A new study found that St. Paul needs to do a better job of informing drivers about available parking spaces.

The study, by San Francisco-based transportation specialists Nelson/Nygaard Consulting, found that St. Paul has plenty of parking — in excess of 28,000 spots. However, the bulk of the spots — 94 percent — are in off-street parking, where confusion over signage, pricing and contract-only lots often leads to parker frustration.

With the Saints' new ballpark, CHS Field, about to open, and new retail and office development likely to bring more people downtown, the report had several recommendations. They include consolidating parking management under one city authority and creating a centralized transportation website and app. They also recommended adjusting parking meter rates and time limits to optimize use and developing strategies to make off-street parking more attractive.

The report now goes to the City Planning Commission for consideration.

Political Coverage Powered by You

Your gift today creates a more connected Minnesota. MPR News is your trusted resource for election coverage, reporting and breaking news. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.