The City of Grand Junction is piloting a new wireless smart parking meter that can accept coins, credit cards, and mobile payments. The new smart meters being tested offer an improved customer experience for anyone doing business downtown. For the pilot that runs from July – October of 2023, meters will be installed beginning June 20 on 3rd St. south of Main St, and 6th St., north and south of Main St. Businesses and visitors who use the smart meters will be asked to provide feedback by completing an online survey and offering comments at EngageGJ.org/smartmeter.
The MacKay mkBeacon™ meter has a large display with an easy-to-use keypad, and utilizes the latest payment technology enabling a variety of options including coins, credit card or mobile payment. The parking meter is powered entirely by renewable energy, running battery neutral with a large solar panel and rechargeable battery pack that lasts up to five years. Internal components are also built with recycled plastics.
Currently, there are 1,158 parking meters within city limits. Time limited parking spaces through the use of meters provide a way to ensure spaces are available on a rotating basis for anyone shopping, enjoying a beverage or a meal, or otherwise doing business in downtown. Twice a year 4,000 AA batteries need to be replaced by staff to keep the meters in working order. They also currently only operate using a mobile pay system or coins. Parking meters are free on weekends and holidays in Grand Junction. Parking garages and lots are also available throughout the area for use by employees and community members.