City of Newark Seeks Input for Downtown Parking Improvements

Newark, DE – On Tuesday, February 25th, The City of Newark Planning & Development Department is seeking public input for its Downtown Parking Plan. Two public workshops will be conducted in a flexible, “drop-in” format from 8:00 to 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. This format facilitates open discussion with the City’s consultant, Kimley-Horn, and ensures participation from multiple groups. The City understands that parking is a complex issue with varying and sometimes conflicting viewpoints and needs. Diversity of input will be critical in creating a parking plan that works for everyone that visits Downtown Newark.

The City has made significant technological improvements to parking access and has retained Kimley-Horn to explore various strategies that maximize the benefits of this technology for residents, business owners and the public. The public workshops provide those groups and other stakeholders the chance to express their opinion on the current state of parking in Downtown Newark and what additional changes they would like to see in the future.

Discussion points will be based on the City’s Comprehensive Parking Plan Update and will include parking management, shared parking agreements, potential partnerships with the University of Delaware and shuttle operations. Parking’s role in economic development goals for this public workshop and subsequent parking improvements will be based on the Comprehensive Parking Plan Update and public feedback.

The City wishes to take an innovative, urban-centric approach to parking in Downtown Newark that will aid in effective distribution among the various user groups as well as helping to increase availability at different times. Additionally, a review of zoning codes will be conducted to support required changes necessary to meet the goals of the City’s parking program. Cumulatively, this work will support the vibrant character of Downtown Newark and be a catalyst for exciting new development while maintaining and enhancing the quality of life for Newark residents and visitors.

For any questions or additional information, please contact Michael Fortner of the Planning and Development Department at (302) 366-7000 ext. 2041 or mfortner@newark.de.us

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