Local business owners say higher public parking rates are hurting sales and driving away visitors, prompting one shop owner to launch a petition calling on city leaders to reconsider the policy.
Jessica O’Connell, co-owner of Cool Vibes on the Beach near Upham Beach, said business has slowed since new parking rates took effect in April. Public parking base rates rose to $5 per hour on weekdays and $6 per hour on weekends, with an additional $1 seasonal surcharge in effect from February through April.
O’Connell said her business depends on paid public parking directly in front of the shop, while nearby city-designated parking spaces cost $60 per day. She said she plans to leave St. Pete Beach when her lease expires in about a year and a half if the pricing policy does not change.
To help offset the cost for customers, Cool Vibes on the Beach has introduced weekly specials and a card offering local residents 10% off purchases. O’Connell also started a Change.org petition asking city leaders to revisit the rates; it was nearing 200 signatures at the time of reporting.
Matt Vario, owner of The Toasted Monkey, said his restaurant has been less affected because it has three designated parking lots, though he said he believes the city’s rates could still be lowered. He said friends visiting the area sometimes park at his house and either ride bikes or take a rideshare to the beach to avoid paying for public parking.
A City of St. Pete Beach spokesperson said the parking program is designed to balance accessibility, turnover and the efficient use of limited parking spaces for both residents and visitors. The city said it will continue evaluating the program and welcomes community feedback, while encouraging residents and visitors to support local businesses.
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