Paid parking coming to downtown Fayetteville

Seven parking lots -- at Ray Avenue and Maiden Lane, Russell and Maxwell Streets, Ottis F. Jones Parkway and Person Street, along Bow Street and Russell and Donaldson Streets -- will phase in a pay-to-park system in coming weeks, the city said.

Officials say the paid system will influence people to park for lesser time periods, freeing up more spaces.

“Paid parking will make the most of our existing parking by providing the flexibility to park all day in lots while allowing people to park short-term on the street for free,” said Rusty Thompson, city traffic engineer.

The cost will be 50 cents per hour on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with a maximum charge of $4. Drivers can pay at self-service islands in each lot by cash, credit or debit cards.

Regular commuters can lease a space by the month for $40.