On Tuesday, December 20, 2022 at the Board of Public Works and Safety meeting, the board unanimously approved changes to downtown parking enforcement by limiting three-hour parking to only Washington Street from First Street to Eighth Street. The new changes to parking are to take place starting sometime in January 2023 for a trial period. 

Columbus City Councilman and Parking Commission Chairman, Tom Dell, was present to discuss the recommendations from the Parking Commission. Dell stated, “This is an attempt, before modifying the parking ordinance permanently, to satisfy some of the individuals who have a vested interest in the downtown area.” 

According to Dell, “the primary parking for customers seems to be centered on Washington Street. By eliminating the restrictions on side streets, this should help relieve other issues associated with parking in the downtown area.” After the first quarter, the Commission will review the statistics before deciding on a recommendation for an ordinance.