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 How Pricing Works in SFpark
Currently, the SFMTA uses flat pricing for on-street parking and SFMTA parking lots – the cost per hour is always the same, regardless of the desirability or demand for those spaces. SFMTA-owned garages currently vary rates by how long you stay.
The desirability of parking spaces, whether on- or off-street, depends on location, time of day, and day of the week. However, parking rates that don’t match demand, combined with the lack of knowledge of which garages have open spaces, result in drivers circling and double-parking.
Pricing Example
Imagine two city blocks. Before SFpark one block, in the heart of the business district, consistently lacked even one available parking space, inviting drivers to circle and double-park. However, another block, just a short distance away, consistently had three or more open spaces.
Accessible text description of Before SFpark image
After SFpark, the parking availability for both blocks changed. Now, both blocks consistently have one available parking space giving drivers a choice: pay slightly more for a space in the heart of the business district, or pay less for a space a short distance away.
Accessible text description of After SFpark image
Both blocks have available parking because drivers have been redirected to other available parking and transportation options. People may:
- Park in garages and lots
- Park on nearby blocks with available spaces
- Park during times when more spaces are available
- Walk, bike, or use Muni more often
Pricing Updates
As parking behaviors and availability evolve, so will prices. Prices will be fixed for a minimum of 30 days. Based on availability data, every four to six weeks the SFMTA will, as necessary, adjust prices by no more than fifty cents ($0.50) per hour to achieve “Just Right” prices. The price range for on-street metered parking is $0.25 to $6.00 per hour, and $1.00 to $10.00 per hour for SFMTA-owned garages and lots.
Like today, current prices will be clearly displayed at garages, on all parking meters, and soon on the web, so that drivers can know the price of parking prior to planning their trip and deciding where to park.
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