Bloomington, Indiana – A parking meter usually gets attention only when it refuses a card, rejects a coin or leaves a driver staring at the screen. Bloomington is now asking the public to look closer before the city chooses what comes next.
Residents, visitors, downtown workers and business owners can test two possible replacements for the city’s aging parking meters and tell officials which system feels easier to use.
The Parking Services Division has installed demonstration kiosks from IPS and Flowbird at its office at 206 S. Walnut Street. Both systems are being considered as candidates for a wider technology update across Bloomington.
Testing is available without an appointment through mid August. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., except on city observed holidays. Participants can try both kiosks and complete a short survey at the site about their experience.
The hands on review gives everyday parking users an early role in a decision that could shape how people pay for on street parking throughout the city. Officials are looking at more than whether the machines work. Ease of use, payment choices and the overall customer experience are also part of the evaluation.
“The goal is to make parking simple,” said Michelle Wahl, Director of Parking Services.
“Testing these systems gives residents and visitors a chance to help us evaluate which potential system best supports that experience before the City makes decisions about next steps.”
The trial follows the Parking Rate Study and Comprehensive Review completed by Walker Consultants in June 2026. That assessment examined Bloomington’s parking policies, operations, technology, communication, branding and wayfinding.
Walker Consultants found that the city’s current on street meter technology has outlived its expected service period and recommended a move to newer systems. The finding placed payment equipment among several areas where Bloomington’s parking network may need clearer, more modern tools.
Public input already played a large role in the review. More than 1,500 people responded to a community survey, while others took part in listening sessions and stakeholder meetings. Participants raised concerns and suggestions involving payment options, signs, public awareness of garages, customer service and the general clarity of the parking system.
The kiosk testing is only an early step. The city plans to continue gathering feedback before broader changes are finalized, with future outreach expected to include focus groups, stakeholder discussions and conversations with residents, employees, businesses and visitors.
For now, the choice begins with two machines, a few minutes of testing and a short survey. More information about Bloomington Parking Services is available at bloomington.in.gov/parking.
