Ellicott City's Main Street Meters Confuse Some, But Opens Spots

Almost five months have passed since new digital meters were installed on Ellicott City's Main Street. During that time Main Street merchants said customers have been confused, but also that there has been more parking on Main Street.

"People are confused as heck," said P.J. Strain, owner of the Pure Wine Cafe. "Other than that there haven't been too many problems."

The confusion was on display at the meter in front of The Forget Me Not Factory. Two women were trying to use a credit card to pay for parking.

"We've been here for 10 minutes trying to figure out how to do it," said Fran Pochran, who was with her friend attempting to pay.

Owen Hanratty, owner of the nearby Cacao Lane, said people often come into his shop asking how to use the meters.

"I have not seen an increase or decrease in business, just a lot of angry people," said Hanratty. "I wouldn't say it's convenient."

Many merchants said the meters were too far apart and that many people can't figure out where to pay. Another common complaint was that the machines don't print out a receipt, so people get confused as to whether they've paid or not. Also, the small type on the digital screen is hard to read, according to merchants.

"It's not marked well, it is not explained well and I think it's affecting business," said Sue Hurd, of Taylor's Antiques. "It's frustrating to most everyone we've talked to."

"So many people get out of their cars and don't see the meters because they're like a half a block apart," said Sarah Arditti, owner of Still Life Gallery.

Other merchants said the meters have been fine, but recommended a few things.

"I would like people to be able to add more than two hours," said Tammy Bideman, owner of Sweet Elizabeth Jane.

Dave Carney, the owner of the Wine Bin and president of the Ellicott City Merchant's Association said he's heard about the confusion over the lack of receipts, but said there's now more parking on the street.

"The county needs to work on the confusion," said Carney "and maybe increase the time to three to four hours so people have enough time to get food and go shopping."

Up and down Main Street businesses have signs in their front windows saying "Did you pay for parking?" that also directs people on how to pay for the meters.

Randy Davis, the meter man who patrols Main Street for violators, said he estimates about 60 percent of people who park understand the meters, and that more are getting accustomed to them as they use the meters.

He said the computers are set up so that he is not notified until after 15 minutes that a car is parked without paying, which is a grace period the county built in with the system.

But, still, he said he hears it from people who receive tickets.

"I've had people cuss me, people who argue, yell," said Davis. "They're getting tickets. It's the best job and the hardest job. You don't want to give people tickets, but if you don't, they'll park all day."

Many merchants noted that the street itself is now much more empty because store employees and residents now park in lots, rather than directly on the street.

"Someone is always going to bitch about parking," said Sue Whary, owner of Sweet Cascades. But she said the parking hasn't hurt her business.

"Customers have said they've been able to get a spot, whereas before they could not," said Whary.

The meters were officially turned on in February. They operate from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and cost $1 per hour, with a maximum of two hours. The meters cost a total of $125,000.

Have you had any concerns about the parking on Ellicott City's historic Main Street?

Related Articles

Facts about Parking in Ellicott City  

Ellicott City Historic District Parking Meters Turn On