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Hudson's new parking system has led to a 26% increase in revenue, according to city officials. The updated system, which replaced traditional coin-operated meters with an app-and-kiosk-based payment method, went into effect on January 16. This change has expanded paid parking areas, including sections below 3rd Street on Warren Street.
During a recent Hudson Common Council Safety Committee meeting, Police Captain David Miller shared that the city issued 1,603 parking tickets in January and 2,750 in February, generating $68,000 in revenue for February alone. Miller noted that of the 16,793 parking transactions in February, only 43 tickets were disputed.
The city plans to install 10 more kiosks, with four being converted to solar power. The cost for installation and conversion, provided by Integrated Technology Systems, is estimated at $9,400 and $3,568, respectively. However, these quotes are only valid for 30 days, according to Parking Bureau Supervisor Doreen Danforth.
Hudson Mayor Joseph Ferris stated that the police department and Department of Public Works are working together to identify the best locations for the new kiosks. Discussions about reducing minimum parking payment times and implementing a residential permit system are ongoing.
Police Chief Mishanda Franklin confirmed that all backlog parking ticket appeals have been addressed. The city's Safety Committee is the first to meet this year under the new council structure, aimed at streamlining meetings and facilitating discussions on various issues.