Portland's parking hours are set for a switch-up starting September 2, with Downtown, Old Town, and the Pearl District changing pay-to-park hours to stretch until 10 p.m. This change doesn't just extend the hours; it also introduces a new late-evening parking option dubbed the "5 after 5" rule in Downtown, Central Eastside, and Lloyd districts. Drivers can now pay for up to five hours of parking starting at 5 p.m., while Northwest Portland will similarly allow drivers to add extra time without the fear of meter feeding penalties at 4-hour meters post this time, as reported by the City of Portland's news release.
As the city gears up for these adjustments, the Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) is aiming to increase parking turnover and availability for those frequenting local businesses. This strategy is derived from their data showing an increased demand for parking space as the city re-emerges more vivaciously from pandemic times. A special consideration is given to downtown residents participating in low-income programs. They may be eligible for an on-street parking pass, enabling them to park from 5 – 10 p.m. outside of event district activations. These passes are tagged at $23 and will be valid through the end of 2026, helping alleviate parking stresses for qualifying community members.
Furthermore, the city’s public SmartPark parking garages offer a discounted monthly rate of $36 for Swing Shift passes, applicable through mid-2026. These passes cater to the working populace of downtown, permitting parking from 2:30 p.m. to 7 a.m. Variations of these passes are also on tap, accommodating different parking needs, including daytime hours and special provisions for motorcycles, carpools, and bicycles. Interested parties are directed to check the SmartPark site for further breakdown of options.
