La Crosse’s Market Square is a central spot in our city. It’s where people gather for events, shop at local businesses, and enjoy the atmosphere of downtown. But like any popular destination, parking can be tricky.
The availability of convenient and affordable parking directly impacts how easily people can access and enjoy Market Square. When parking is scarce or confusing, it can deter visitors and negatively affect the businesses that rely on foot traffic. Balancing the need for parking with the limited space available is an ongoing challenge.
This article serves as your comprehensive guide to Market Square parking. We’ll break down everything you need to know to navigate the parking situation smoothly. We’ll cover the various options available, including the ramp and street parking, explain the regulations you need to be aware of (especially when it comes to snow emergencies!), and shed light on how parking is enforced. Whether you’re a regular visitor or planning your first trip to Market Square, this guide will help you find the best parking solution for your needs.
Market Square Ramp: Your Central Parking Solution
If you’re headed to Market Square, the Market Square Ramp is probably your best bet for parking. Here’s what you need to know:
Location and Accessibility
The Market Square Garage is located right in the heart of downtown, at 400 Walnut Street, Knoxville, TN 37902. You’ll find it right beside the historic Market House and the Knoxville Museum of Art.
The garage is open from 6 AM to 10 PM, Monday through Saturday. Keep in mind that the garage may be closed for special events or holidays, so it’s a good idea to check the Park Knoxville website before you go.
You can enter the garage from Walnut Street. Be aware that there’s a height restriction of 7’0″, so if you’re driving a taller vehicle, you’ll need to find alternative parking.
Parking Fees and Payment Options
Parking at the Market Square Garage is very affordable. The hourly rate is just $1.00 per hour, with a maximum daily rate of $10.00.
If you’re a frequent visitor to Market Square, you might want to consider purchasing a monthly parking permit. These permits range from $40 to $50 per month, depending on the type of permit you need. You can find more information about monthly permits and how to obtain one on the Park Knoxville website. There may be restrictions, such as no overnight parking.
The garage accepts cash and credit cards. You can also use mobile payment apps like ParkMobile. The Market Square Ramp ParkMobile zone number is 29101.
It’s a good idea to pay close attention to any signage about parking rules to avoid tickets or towing.
Amenities and Features
The Market Square Garage has over 100 parking spaces, so you should be able to find a spot even during peak hours.
The garage has security cameras and regular patrols by security personnel to help keep your vehicle safe.
The garage also has accessible parking spaces and elevator access for people with disabilities.
Street Parking Around Market Square: Navigating the Regulations
Finding a place to park around Market Square can be a challenge, so it’s important to know the rules of the road – or, in this case, the rules of the parking space. Street parking around Market Square is governed by a complex web of regulations, so let’s break it down.
Time-Restricted Parking Zones
In many areas surrounding Market Square, you’ll find time-restricted parking zones. These zones are designed to encourage turnover and ensure that parking spaces are available for a variety of users throughout the day.
Common Time Limits
Typical time limits in these zones are 30 minutes, 1 hour, or 2 hours. The time limit will be clearly posted on signs, so pay attention. Enforcement is typically handled by parking officers who patrol the area and mark tires to track how long a vehicle has been parked in a particular spot. If you exceed the time limit, you’re likely to get a ticket.
Signage Interpretation
Understanding parking signs is crucial to avoiding a parking ticket. Look closely at the signs. Time limits are usually displayed prominently. Pay attention to any symbols or color codes. For example, a red sign might indicate no parking at all, while a green sign might indicate a loading zone. Some signs may also have specific days or hours when the restrictions are in effect, so read carefully!
Single Block Face Restrictions
Be aware of single block face restrictions. This means that the parking regulations apply only to one side of the street within a particular block. A “block face” refers to the side of the street between two intersecting streets. It’s easy to miss, so double-check that the regulations on the sign match the side of the street where you’re parked.
Metered Parking
Metered parking is another common option near Market Square. This involves paying for a parking space at a designated rate for a specific amount of time.
Operation Hours
Metered parking is typically in effect during peak hours, usually from morning until evening. Check the meters themselves for the specific hours of operation, as they can vary depending on the location.
Payment Methods
Payment methods for metered parking have become more convenient over the years. While some meters still accept coins, many now also accept credit cards or payments through mobile apps. Mobile apps often allow you to extend your parking time remotely, which can be a lifesaver if you’re running late.
Meter Rates
Meter rates vary depending on the location and the time of day. The current rates should be clearly displayed on the meter itself.
Avoiding Overtime Fees
To avoid overtime fees, set a reminder on your phone or use a mobile payment app that will notify you when your time is about to expire. If you’re using a traditional meter, make sure to return to your car before the time runs out to avoid a ticket.
Emergency Alternate Side Parking
In certain situations, such as snow removal or street cleaning, emergency alternate side parking regulations may be put into effect.
Purpose of Alternate Side Parking
The purpose of alternate side parking is to allow city crews to efficiently clear streets of snow or perform street cleaning without having to maneuver around parked vehicles.
Notification Methods
Residents are typically notified of emergency alternate side parking regulations through various channels, including text alerts, email notices, and public announcements on the city’s website or social media accounts. It’s a good idea to register for these notifications so you’re aware of any changes.
Regulations and Penalties
Emergency alternate side parking regulations typically involve parking on one side of the street on odd-numbered days and the other side on even-numbered days. Time restrictions may also apply. The penalties for violating these regulations can include fines. Under current regulations, the emergency alternate side parking regulations run for 48 hours after notice, and notice is provided at least six hours prior to penalties taking effect. The first violation within a calendar year is currently $0.00, but the second and any additional violations within a calendar year can be $15.00, $30.00, or $60.00.
Enforcement and Penalties: Understanding Your Responsibilities
Parking in Market Square is generally straightforward, but it’s important to understand the rules to avoid fines and other consequences. Here’s a breakdown of parking violations, penalties, and your options if you think you’ve been unfairly ticketed.
Parking Violations and Fines
You can be ticketed for any number of parking infractions, including:
- Overtime parking: Staying longer than the maximum time allowed in a metered space or designated zone.
- Parking in restricted zones: This includes parking in loading zones, fire lanes, bus stops, or spaces reserved for people with disabilities (without the proper permit).
- Alternate side parking violations: Disregarding posted signs regarding parking restrictions on certain days for street cleaning or other purposes.
The amount you’ll be fined depends on the specific violation. Fines can range from a modest amount for overtime parking to significantly higher amounts for parking in disability spaces or blocking emergency access.
You can typically pay your parking fine in one of three ways:
- Online: Most municipalities offer an online payment portal where you can pay with a credit card or debit card.
- By mail: You can usually mail a check or money order to the address listed on the parking ticket.
- In person: Many cities have a designated office where you can pay your ticket in person, often with cash, check, or card.
Vehicle Immobilization and Removal
Market Square takes parking enforcement seriously, and repeat offenders face harsher penalties.
If you’re deemed a “habitual parking violator” – typically defined as someone with five or more unpaid parking citations that are more than 60 days old – your vehicle may be immobilized (booted). You’ll usually receive a notice before the immobilization device is placed on your vehicle. Vehicles are typically immobilized after the 60-day mark for those unpaid citations.
In more serious cases, your vehicle may be impounded. This can happen if your vehicle is unregistered or if you continue to accrue unpaid parking tickets. Unregistered vehicles are subject to citation, immobilization, impoundment, and even disposal.
Immobilization, impoundment, and redeeming your vehicle from the impound lot all come with fees. These fees can include the cost of the boot, towing charges, and daily storage fees. Contact the local authorities for a detailed breakdown of these costs.
Appealing a Parking Ticket
If you believe you received a parking ticket in error, you have the right to appeal it. Valid grounds for appeal might include:
- Faulty meter: If the meter was malfunctioning and you can provide evidence of this.
- Incorrect signage: If the signage was unclear or misleading.
- Emergency situation: If you were parked illegally due to a medical emergency or other unforeseen circumstance.
The appeal process typically involves the following steps:
- Obtain an appeal form from the city’s website or parking enforcement office.
- Fill out the form completely and accurately, explaining why you believe the ticket was issued in error.
- Gather any supporting documentation, such as photos, witness statements, or repair receipts.
- Submit the appeal form and documentation by the deadline specified on the ticket.
Required documentation to support your appeal might include:
- Photos of the parking meter or signage.
- A copy of the parking ticket.
- A written statement from a witness.
- Repair receipts or other documentation to support your claim.
Putting It All Together
Navigating Market Square parking can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be! Remember your key options: the convenience of parking ramps and the more affordable, but sometimes trickier, street parking. Each offers its own benefits, so choose what best suits your needs and budget.
Regardless of where you park, remember that following parking regulations is crucial. Pay attention to posted signs, time limits, and any other restrictions. Avoiding tickets and tows will make your visit to Market Square much more enjoyable.
For the most up-to-date information, including parking rates and availability, check the official city website. You can also contact the city’s parking services directly with any questions or concerns.
By being mindful of parking regulations and choosing the right option for your needs, you can contribute to a positive experience for everyone visiting Market Square. So, park responsibly and enjoy all that Market Square has to offer!