WATSONVILLE — At peak times, more than half of downtown Watsonville’s 3,000-plus parking spots are empty.
That’s according to a more than year-long study by a city-commissioned consultant scheduled for review by the city council on Tuesday.
In September 2016, the council entered into a $65,000 contract with San Francisco-based Nelson/Ngaard Consulting to create a new parking study, which was last completed in 2003.
According to the study, which examined 15 lots and a variety of curbside parking spots throughout the downtown area, about 46 percent of the spots were full during different days and times throughout the year.
The report suggested that inconsistent time limits throughout downtown are confusing to motorists, with at least four different time limit lengths at various locations.
A number of private parking lots sit “underutilized,” the report stated, as some have signs warning visitors that they will be towed if they park there and visit another destination. The report suggested parking could be made more efficient if the city negotiated with land owners to open those lots to shared use.
The council on Tuesday will consider directing city staff to come up with a draft ordinance based on the recommendations of the study.
According to a report by Tamara Vides, assistant to the city manager, the ordinance could, among other things, include removing parking time limits at certain areas and installing meters. The city could also look at establishing consistent time limits at all lots.
Also on Tuesday’s agenda:
• The council is expected to authorize staff to submit a $330,000 grant application to the California State Coastal Conservancy to fund studies for a trail that connects Pajaro Valley High School to Lee Road.
• Watsonville Farmers Market Manager Jesus Madrigal will give an update on the weekly market in downtown.
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The Watsonville City Council will meet Tuesday at 4 p.m. in the City Council Chambers, 275 Main St., fourth floor.
