Parking Concerns on Fourth Avenue: Local Business Owners Speak Out
TUCSON, Ariz. (KVOA) – A dozen business owners on Fourth Avenue gathered recently to voice their concerns about the city’s parking policies, claiming these regulations are negatively impacting their businesses.
Maria Mazon, owner of Boca, led the meeting, highlighting how restrictions like a two-hour parking limit and recent changes to paid meter hours are discouraging customers.
“Fourth Avenue is slowly disappearing, and all because of parking,” Mazon stated. She lamented that customers feel rushed during their visits due to the limited parking time, saying, “You only have two hours, enjoy your 2 hours then get the heck out. That’s not how you run a business.”
Micah Blatt, owner of Mr. Head’s Bar, echoed similar frustrations, citing complaints regarding malfunctioning meters and issues with parking apps, which deter potential customers.
City officials argue that without time limits and a paid parking system, there is little turnover in parking spots, which can lead to employees occupying spaces meant for customers. Currently, there are 137 parking meters along Fourth Avenue, but 61 of them do not accept coin payments, forcing users to rely on mobile payment options.
Blatt proposed potential solutions, suggesting that the city should invest in parking infrastructure and explore partnerships with local businesses, especially newer apartment complexes that could offer shared parking during business hours.
Despite their frustrations, business owners emphasize the importance of preserving what makes Fourth Avenue unique. “Tucson is my home. So let’s save the oldest avenue in town,” Mazon insisted.
While the city plans to reach out to Mazon this week to discuss the issues, she has yet to receive any communication. Business owners are hopeful for a collaborative approach to finding a resolution.
