Winter Park leaders are set to discuss a six-month paid parking pilot program that could require nonresidents to pay to park at two popular city parks.
The Winter Park City Commission is expected to take up the proposal Wednesday. According to a city staff report, the pilot would apply to visitors at Dinky Dock Park and Lake Baldwin Park.
Parking at both parks is currently free. Under the proposal, Winter Park residents would be required to register to prove they live in the city, while visitors would pay through a cashless system using their phones.
The staff report does not specify how much nonresidents would be charged.
Dinky Dock Park is a popular lake access point for boaters and kayakers. Lake Baldwin Park is known for its playground, large dog park and 2.5-mile walking trail.
Some visitors said a parking fee could affect whether they continue coming to the parks.
“I come here just to kayak usually, but today we’re doing the boat,” said Melvin Torres, who does not live in Winter Park.
Asked whether a fee would deter him, Torres said, “Yeah. It does seem a little annoying.”
Torres said anything more than $5 would likely be too much, though he said he would consider paying that amount for a full day.
Ashley Adams, who was visiting Lake Baldwin Park, said she does not think people should have to pay to access a community space.
“I don’t think it’s fair,” Adams said. “It feels like a public park. It feels like something everyone should be able to come to. There’s this kid section. No one should have to pay for it.”
Adams said she believes the park serves as a gathering place.
“It’s a community here,” she said. “So I don’t think there’s any reason to charge money for a community to get together. There should be a safe spot for everyone.”
According to the staff report, paid parking could improve turnover, reduce congestion and generate money that commissioners could use for other projects.
News 6 emailed the city of Winter Park to ask how much officials are considering charging nonresidents.
Wednesday’s meeting is only a discussion. If commissioners decide to move forward, the next step would be drafting an ordinance. The pilot program could begin in spring 2027.