Richmond’s Scott’s Addition implements ‘timed-parking zones’ to manage growth

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Richmond officials are reverting back to a COVID-era policy affecting how long cars can park along streets in Scott's Addition.

Starting Monday, Jan. 5, Richmond will enforce "timed-parking zones " on some streets in the neighborhood to combat the area's "rapid growth," according to the city.

Members of the Greater Scott's Addition Association Board (GSAA) discussed the idea and voted to undo the COVID-era parking enforcement suspension from 2020, with changes implemented.

Streets that are considered "high demand" will become "timed-parking zones" starting on Jan. 5. However, Richmond has not shared which streets will change, but most will still have free and unlimited parking.

"As activity increases, parking must work for everyone: residents, businesses, and visitors," the GSAA said in a statement. "This updated plan is the product of community input and is designed to keep the neighborhood thriving."

Michael Di Leo, who frequently visits Scott's Addition, is skeptical whether these changes will solve parking problems.

"My brother had a shop space here before it became anything but industrial," Di Leo said.

The area has evolved over time from the influx of bars and apartments. Even after navigating the streets to find a place to park, Di Leo enjoys visiting the restaurants.

However, he is not convinced whether this policy will help with parking, especially if events and meetings are happening.

"They're just going to move their congestion from one place to another," Di Leo said. "In Carytown, they were able to build a couple-level parking deck. There's nothing like that here."

The city plans to observe the policy and then "evaluate outcomes" in 2027, officials said.