City To Replace Last Coin-Only Operated Parking Meter

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — The last coin-only operated parking meter in Los Angeles will be replaced Tuesday with a credit card and coin operated machine.

Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, who has pushed for more reliable and convenient parking meters, will replace the remaining meter at 10 a.m. at 1236 S. Alvarado Street.

"A 21st century transportation system needs 21st century technology," Mayor Villaraigosa said. "These card and coin meters generate needed revenue, are environmentally conscious and, most importantly, they're convenient and reliable."

If one breaks, a text message is sent to meter technicians and is expected to be fixed within three hours, according to officials.

The Los Angeles Department of Transportation started replacing the first coin-only machines in 2007.

The replacement program was ramped up in 2010, and LADOT has upgraded 33,345 meters in the last two and a half years.

"The new meters are great.  As a business owner, people have stopped asking us about broken meters. I've used them myself and think it's a good idea and good for businesses," David Godinez, owner of the Global Prepaid store across the street from the final meter, said. "More working meters mean more business for us."

LADOT's parking program generated over $16 million in surplus revenue in the 2011-2012 fiscal year.

"LADOT chose the meters carefully and opted for eco-friendly designs. Now, the City of LA operates the most solar-powered parking meters in the world. Pay stations are also powered by 'green cell' batteries," a statement said.