The City of Stillwater has received questions and comments regarding recent downtown parking updates.
In response to community interest, the Downtown Parking Commission meeting on June 18 will include a staff presentation on the downtown parking system, recent operational updates, and current parking options, followed by an opportunity for public comment.
Downtown Parking Commission Meeting
Date: June 18, 2026
Time: 8:30 a.m.
Location: Stillwater City Hall
216 Fourth Street North
Stillwater, MN 55082
We understand that parking is an important topic for our community and encourage anyone interested to attend. The City remains committed to providing information, answering questions, and considering community input as parking operations continue to evolve.
More information on downtown parking:
Downtown Parking Update: What Residents Should Know
Over the past several months, the City of Stillwater has made updates to its downtown parking system aimed at improving parking availability, simplifying management, and creating a more consistent parking experience for residents, visitors, employees, and businesses.
As with any change, we've received valuable feedback from the community. We appreciate the input and want to share an update on what has changed, what we're working on, and some helpful reminders for anyone visiting downtown.
What Changed and Why?
The City's recent parking updates were designed to help manage parking demand in our busy downtown district while balancing the needs of residents, visitors, businesses, and employees. These changes include things like adjusting parking on main street from 30 to 90 minutes, applying consistency to time limits in our lots, and changes in enforcement software.
Parking plays an important role in supporting a vibrant downtown. By improving how parking is managed, the City aims to make it easier for people to find available spaces, support local businesses, and create a more predictable experience for everyone who visits downtown.
It's also important to note that a significant amount of downtown parking remains free. Approximately 50% of downtown parking spaces continue to be available to the public at no charge.
Improved Parking Signage Is Our Top Priority
One of the most common pieces of feedback we've received is that parking signs can be confusing or difficult to locate. Improving parking signage and wayfinding is currently the City's top parking priority. Staff are evaluating locations throughout downtown to identify areas where new or additional signs are needed.
A Reminder About Free Parking Tuesdays
Free Parking Tuesdays continue to be a popular downtown program, but we've received questions about what rules still apply on those days.
While payment is not required on Tuesdays, all other parking regulations remain in effect. Drivers must continue to follow posted time limits, handicap parking requirements, no-parking zones, fire lane restrictions, and other safety-related parking regulations.
Why Isn't All Parking Free?
Parking facilities require ongoing maintenance, snow removal, signage, enforcement, repairs, and future improvements. Parking revenue helps support these costs and reduces the amount that would otherwise need to be funded through taxes.
Managed parking also helps improve turnover and availability in higher-demand areas, making it easier for visitors and customers to find convenient parking near downtown destinations and businesses.
The City's goal is to maintain a parking system that is affordable, accessible, and sustainable for the long term while continuing to provide a variety of free and paid parking options.
Did You Know? Monthly Parking Permits Are Available
For those who work downtown, monthly parking permits remain an affordable option for just $20 a month. Permits provide convenient access to designated parking areas and can be a cost-effective solution for employees. For information visit the City's website.
