Smart parking technology rolled out in Charlottesville Downtown

Charlottesville is introducing an advanced smart parking system in its downtown area, beginning Tuesday (December 16), at the Market Street and Water Street garages. 

This technology upgrade aims to provide residents and visitors with a smoother, more modern, and entirely seamless parking experience.

The new system, powered by Metropolis technology, allows drivers to simply enter and exit the garages without needing traditional tickets, paper slips, or enduring long wait times. 

Instead of a physical pass, the vehicle itself becomes the parking credential, automating the process and addressing chronic issues like malfunctioning payment kiosks and exit delays caused by aging equipment. 

This shift signals the city’s move away from traditional hardware toward a streamlined, contemporary parking management solution.

A primary benefit of the system is the elimination of common frustrations, such as equipment failures and bottlenecks at exit gates. 

Despite the technological overhaul, the current parking structure remains budget-friendly: the first hour at both garages will continue to be free, and existing hourly parking rates will remain unchanged. 

Local businesses participating in validation programmes will also be able to continue offering this benefit through the new platform.

To ensure a smooth transition, drivers are strongly encouraged to familiarise themselves with the new system and create an account prior to visiting downtown Charlottesville.