Bloomington, Indiana – The City of Bloomington is introducing a new initiative to support local businesses during the summer slowdown by offering free on-street parking downtown after 5 p.m. on Friday and Saturday nights throughout July.
Free Parking to Boost Local Economy
Starting July 5, residents and visitors can enjoy free parking on all metered streets in the downtown area from 5 p.m. onwards on Fridays and Saturdays. This initiative aims to increase foot traffic and encourage more people to visit and support local shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
“A downtown Bloomington summer is hard to match with the lively community atmosphere when our city is out enjoying dining and the arts and entertainment,” says Mayor Kerry Thomson. “Yet, it can be challenging for our local businesses. By offering free parking on Friday and Saturday evenings, we hope to make it easier for people to come downtown, explore, and enjoy all that our vibrant community and local businesses have to offer.”
Meet the Mayor Events
As part of this initiative, Mayor Thomson will be available at various locations around downtown on Friday, July 5, and Saturday, July 27, from 5 to 7 p.m. This provides an opportunity for residents and visitors to meet the Mayor in an informal setting. Participants are encouraged to take photos with Mayor Thomson, ask questions, and learn more about ongoing and upcoming city projects and services.
Supporting Local Businesses
The free parking initiative is designed to make downtown more accessible and inviting, helping to sustain the vibrant community atmosphere that Bloomington is known for. By reducing parking costs, the city hopes to draw more visitors to support local businesses during the summer, a period that can often be slower for many retailers and service providers.
More Information
For additional details about the free parking initiative and other downtown events, please visit the City of Bloomington’s website at www.bloomington.in.gov or contact the City’s Office of Economic and Sustainable Development at [email protected] or 812-349-3418.
