Photos: Many suburbs rethinking parking
An increasing number of suburbs are turning to the parking study as they look for ways to alleviate gridlock and create vibrant downtown destinations.
Joanne Rathe/Globe Staff
| July 11, 2014
Before the completion of the Dedham Square improvement project in late 2013, the intersection created a danger for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists.
Jonathan Wiggs/Globe Staff
| July 11, 2014
Some communities like Belmont have embraced free or reduced-price parking a block or two from main commercial areas.
Joanne Rathe/Globe Staff
| July 11, 2014
According Jessica Robertson of the Metropolitan Area Planning Council, those minor adjustments ensure steady turnover on Main Street.
Pat Greenhouse/Globe Staff
| July 11, 2014
Salem created different pricing levels at on-street meters to ensure availability in the most popular downtown areas.
Wendy Maeda/Globe Staff
| July 11, 2014
Improvements in Dedham Square included getting rid of the paid permit requirement in one lot and replacing old-fashioned meters with electronic pay stations.
Jonathan Wiggs/Globe Staff
| July 11, 2014
Many of the changes in Dedham Square cater to people running quick errands by allowing them to park for free for the first 15 minutes.
Jonathan Wiggs/Globe Staff
| July 11, 2014
In addition to the tiered pricing system, Salem extended meter time limits to four hours to encourage dining and shopping.
Wendy Maeda/Globe Staff
| July 11, 2014
Cheryl Doucette, assistant manager of The Blue Bunny bookstore, says the changes in Dedham Square have been good for small businesses.
Pat Greenhouse/Globe Staff
| July 11, 2014
Although one parking plan does not fit all, many suburbs are turning to parking studies as a way to revitalize their struggling centers.
Wendy Maeda/Globe Staff
| July 11, 2014
