MUSCATINE, Iowa – Santa’s helpers were out early in Downtown Muscatine on Wednesday, covering the two-hour parking meters with festive bags to mark the start of a six-week moratorium on meter payments. From Nov. 19 through Jan. 4, drivers can enjoy free two-hour parking once-per-day per block in metered spaces throughout the downtown business district.
The Muscatine City Council approved the recommendation from City staff at its meeting Tuesday night. The moratorium does not apply to 10-hour meters, which will continue to require payment.
“Free two-hour parking is a simple way we can support both our residents and our downtown businesses during the busiest shopping season of the year,” said Matt Mardesen, City Administrator. “We hope this encourages more people to come downtown, shop local, and enjoy everything Muscatine has to offer.”
Downtown 2nd Street already operates under a two-hour, once-per-day per block parking rule, which remains unchanged.
“We appreciate everyone following the two-hour limit so the spaces turn over and remain available,” said Mardesen. “Our goal is to make parking easier and the holiday experience more enjoyable for everyone.”
City staff volunteers fanned out across downtown Wednesday to place the holiday bags on meters. The City will continue to monitor the two-hour limit and issue tickets for violations. Data collected during the moratorium will help guide future decisions on downtown parking.