Title: Fourth Avenue Business Owners Rally for Parking Solutions
TUCSON, Ariz. (KVOA) – A dozen business owners on Fourth Avenue gathered to voice their concerns to the city regarding increasing parking issues affecting their district.
Maria Mazon, owner of Boca, emphasized the urgency of the matter, stating, “Fourth Avenue is slowly disappearing and all because of parking.” She highlighted that a two-hour parking limit and changes to paid meter hours are driving customers away.
Mazon expressed the frustration of families trying to enjoy their time out, saying, “You only have two hours, enjoy your 2 hours then get the heck out. That’s not how you run a business.”
Similarly, Micah Blatt, owner of Mr. Head’s Bar, shared that he’s received numerous complaints about malfunctioning parking meters and issues with payment apps. “I think that gets frustrating for people,” he noted.
City officials explained that time limits and paid parking help ensure turnover, allowing customers access to limited parking spaces rather than employees monopolizing them. Currently, 137 meters line Fourth Avenue, with 61 inoperable for coin payments, requiring drivers to use an app or text.
Blatt suggested a collaborative approach, saying, “The city should invest in Fourth Avenue… and establish parking benefit agreements with nearby businesses.”
Despite their frustrations, business owners remain committed to preserving the unique character of Fourth Avenue. “Tucson is my home. So let’s save the oldest avenue in town,” Mazon stated.
The owners are eager to collaborate with the city, which plans to reach out to Mazon this week, although she has yet to receive communication.
