Contact (Media Only): Erik Linden (202) 671-2004

(Washington, DC) Michelle L. Pourciau, acting Director of the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) today announced the arrival of new high-tech “multi-space” parking meters in the District’s downtown. DDOT this week replaced 234 single-spaced meters with 27 multi-space meters between 12th and 21st Streets, Northwest.

The new solar-powered meters, installed by DDOT, manage multiple parking spaces within a single block. Parking patrons purchase time with either a credit or debit card or US coins at the meter. Then, the machine issues a receipt to be placed inside the vehicle on the passenger side of the dashboard. The meters allow more vehicles to park at the curb and reduce sidewalk clutter, thereby providing more space for pedestrians. The meters are more vandal-resistant than standard meters and offer real-time feedback to DDOT should any problems occur.

“These new high-tech meters are a great example of how at DDOT we’re stepping up efforts to simplify parking meters and create more sidewalk space in congested areas for pedestrians,” said Pourciau. “The meters also give us ‘real time’ feedback to alert us of any problems that occur. That’s using technology to help better serve the public in the District of Columbia. That’s something we can all be proud of.”

“Pay to Park” signs are posted on either end of the Designated Parking Area (DPA). Universal “pay here” signs have been posted near the actual meters. These signs show a hand with a coin indicating to the motorist where they need to go to pay and receive their receipt. 

Councilmember Jack Evans, Ward 2 said: “With our city’s downtown growing at unprecedented pace, it’s critical that we continue to find innovative ways to reduce congestion on our streets and sidewalks. I was impressed with the Georgetown multi-space meter pilot program and am thrilled to see the expansion into downtown on K Street. I look forward to hearing from residents, businesses and visitors about how they’re being received.”