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The 4th of July is a time we think about our freedoms. And the leaders of Park City have just given Utahns another one.
With period costume and feather pens, Park City leaders signed a declaration of independence--independence from paid parking. They're hoping to change the perception that the resort town is out of reach for anyone but rich tourists.
Dana Williams, Mayor of Park City: "We are not too expensive, we are not exclusive, we are not inaccessible. And people who espouse those theories will be put in stocks on Main Street and flogged."
In the spirit of ‘76, 76-percent of parking in the historic downtown area will be permanently free.
On Park City's Main Street this is no small issue. Paid parking has sparked somewhat of a revolution. People say they'll like their newfound freedom.
Kelli Liston: “It's really hard to come find a spot and I think if you can't find a spot, you're not going to be as likely to come into the shops."
Kristi Naylor: “Especially back in high school, we'd want to come to Park City, but we couldn't because it was too much of a hassle to come up."
Michael Larkin: “The paid parking is an interesting idea, but it's tough to figure out."
Main Street employees say this plan couldn't be sweeter, many believe the parking problem has been bad for business.
David Jones, Employee: "I think it's a good idea; it's going to help a lot of people who get out of their car, look around and come in and say, is it alright if we park here?"
Rick Anderson, Historic Main Street Business Alliance: “Paid parking on Main Street, overall we've had a negative experience with it and we're glad to see what the city council has done."
About the only place where parking meters will stay is right along Main Street. Almost everywhere else, parking is free.
