After a software issue temporarily put the brakes on a new parking-meter system in downtown Little Rock's River Market district, city officials say the card-or-coin meters are now ready for use.
On Sept. 22, the city installed eight "Pay and Display" meters — designed to accept coins and credit or debit cards — along President Clinton Avenue, the 100 block of Sherman Street and the 100 block of River Market Avenue, ArkansasOnline previously reported. The meters were expected to be fully operational by Oct. 14; however, a calibration and printing issue delayed the launch.
Since the installation of the meters, parking enforcement technicians have issued warning citations to drivers as a reminder of the anticipated change. On Tuesday, the city will no longer issue warnings, and motorists will be expected to pay to park in those areas that were once free, city officials said in a news release Friday.
Parking Enforcement Administrator Jack Wrenn said the use of the meters should become "second nature" to River Market patrons, and technicians will be available for some time to assist those using the system for the first time.
Drivers will be expected to use the meters from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, the release states.