Looking For Parking?

By: Angelina Berube
Posted In: Opinion

NEWPORT- Sorry, the lot’s full. For many visitors to Newport, R.I. during a major event such as this weekend’s boat show, this is the case. Parking in downtown Newport close to the Brick Market Place can be crammed, limited, and above all else, expensive.

Last year, I attended the Newport Music Festival during the summer, unaware it would take over an hour and a half to find one spot. I finally gave up looking for a cheap spot in the Newport Gateway Center parking lot and settled for a lot in the Brick Market Place section. The spot cost me over $30.

Since last summer, nothing has changed. Now in September, the parking situation is still stressful. You ask yourself, where do I park? What if there are no spots ahead? Do you pay the $30 to ensure you get a spot?

Trying to find a spot this weekend brewed into a headache. Signs read, No parking from this hour to that, reserved for Newport residents only, parking sticker required. Parking became an unwanted frustration.

On my excursion to find a reasonable parking spot, I found many factors that complicated my search. Sure, a parking lot is right in front of Brick Alley Pub, but will it set you back even before you eat your dinner? Parking at the Brick Market Place Long Wharf Mall South lot can cost either $30 up front which will last until 2 a.m. or an hourly charge. The hourly charge works as follows. The first hour is free and then every half hour is $2.50. The decision is yours, but if you stay in that lot more than seven hours and you wait to pay as you exit the lot, it will cost you even more.

The Brick Market Place Long Wharf Mall South lot is a popular location. The immediate lot in front of Brick Alley held 74 cars while the extension of the lot holds plenty more. This lot fills to capacity by 11:30 a.m. on most days. The weekends are the busiest, especially during major events such as the Newport International Boat Show, July fourth weekend, and Newport’s various festivals.

If that lot is full by the time you get into town, try parking along the meters. Though these spots are far and few, it is a lot cheaper than the lots. Walking the streets I counted 28 spots directly in front of Brick Alley Pub., with usually one spot available. I have learned it is all about timing. Try to look for a meter spot and if no luck, go back to a lot.

Several other meter sections also line the streets further down. It gets tricky however. Some meters have signs that say three hour limit. This is the case right across from Starbucks, so try to be wary of time when you are getting lost in a book while enjoying your coffee. Remember, you are on a time limit. Parking becomes the question of how far you want to walk and how much you are willing to pay.

Before you turn onto Thames Street next time, ask yourself how much you are willing to pay for parking and what you want to get out of it. If you are willing to walk, take the trolley. The trolley is a convenient cheap way to get around the city without the hassle of parking.

Still looking for parking?