A Closer Look: The Rise and Downfalls of Street Parking

In New York City, street parking (and overnight parking in particular) hasn’t always been as common as it is today – in fact, NYC used to be geared more towards movement and pedestrians. Bans on permanent parking were in effect as early as the 1800s, and today, it is still illegal to park a car in the same spot for more than seven days in a row. 

How Ridesharing Companies and Cabs Impact Parking in NYC

New York City streets are a battleground—not just for honking cabs and daring cyclists but for something even more elusive: a decent parking spot. As ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft integrate into the city’s daily rhythm, they are reshaping how we think about curb space, congestion, and car ownership. But are they solving NYC’s notorious parking problem, or just making it worse?   The Changing Role of the Curb Ever hailed an Uber only to watch it awkwardly pull over in a no-standing zone, hazard lights blinking, blocking an entire lane of traffic? You’re not alone. Ridesharing vehicles and cabs have fundamentally changed the function of the curb. Once a haven for parked cars, curbs have now become revolving doors for constant passenger pick-ups and drop-offs. They frequently double as unsanctioned loading zones—not to mention the city’s holiest of trash piles and, unfortunately, rat sanctuaries. In Manhattan’s most congested areas, research shows that as many as 80% of Uber and Lyft rides involve pick-ups or drop-offs in no-standing zones. This shrinks available parking and leads to increased double-parking, which not only squeezes out private vehicles but also disrupts bike lanes, bus stops, and delivery operations. It’s a domino effect:

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Everything You Need to Know About Charging Electric Vehicles in NYC

As electric vehicles (EVs) continue to gain popularity, New York City has been ramping up its efforts to expand the EV charging infrastructure. Whether you’re a seasoned EV owner or considering making the switch, staying informed about charging options is essential. Here’s a comprehensive guide to EV charging stations in NYC, including current resources, recent developments, and tips for making the most of the growing network. EV Charging Infrastructure in NYC New York City has made significant strides in expanding its EV charging network. The city boasts thousands of publicly accessible charging points, including a mix of Level 2 chargers and fast-charging stations (and that number is quickly increasing). This growing infrastructure reflects the city’s commitment to meeting its sustainability goals and accommodating the increasing number of EV drivers. Key Developments: Curbside Chargers Expansion: NYC has added hundreds of new curbside Level 2 chargers in neighborhoods with high EV adoption rates, such as Brooklyn Heights, Long Island City, and the Upper West Side. Fast Charging Hubs: The city features multiple fast-charging hubs across the five boroughs, including locations near Yankee Stadium in the Bronx and Flushing Meadows in Queens. Public Parking Garages: Several NYC public parking garages now feature expanded

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Decoding NYC’s Street Parking Signs

A Guide to Avoiding Tickets Parking in New York City is serious business even for locals. Parking regulations can change and figuring out what all the signs mean can feel overwhelming at first. We’re breaking down the most common street parking signs to help you avoid pesky tickets and the dreaded tow! Here’s what you need to know about NYC parking signs and what they mean: 1. Alternate Side Parking These signs indicate when parking is prohibited for street cleaning. You might see, “No Parking Tuesday & Friday, 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM”. This means cars must be moved during those hours to allow street sweepers to pass. Alternate-side rules are also suspended on major and some religious holidays, so check out our X account for updates or download the NYC Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Alt Side Parking Calendar. 2. No Standing Anytime This sign means you cannot stop or park your car in a particular area at any time, even briefly. These zones are typically found near fire hydrants, bus stops, and major intersections. 3. No Parking Anytime While you can’t park or leave your car unattended in these zones, you can stop briefly to pick up or drop

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Congestion Pricing in NYC: What It Means for Traffic, Parking, and Commuters in 2025

New York City is introducing congestion pricing this year to reduce traffic, improve air quality, and fund public transit. As the first policy of its kind in the U.S., it will change how drivers, businesses, and commuters navigate Manhattan’s busiest areas. What Is Congestion Pricing? Congestion pricing charges vehicles a fee to enter Manhattan below 60th Street during peak hours. This is expected to reduce traffic and emissions, and generate funding for MTA subway and bus improvements. Traffic and Parking Changes Fewer cars in the congestion zone could mean faster commutes and less crowded streets, but neighborhoods bordering the zone may see more traffic and parking competition. Suburban commuters might use park-and-ride options near transit hubs. Apps like ParkNYC can help drivers locate and pay for parking efficiently. How to Adapt Commuters can shift to public transit, carpool, or use park-and-ride services to manage costs. Businesses may save by scheduling deliveries during off-peak hours or encouraging transit-friendly commutes for employees. Benefits and Challenges Congestion pricing offers cleaner air, less traffic, and billions in transit funding but may cause spillover traffic in nearby neighborhoods and financial strain for some drivers. This policy aims to encourage sustainable habits like biking, walking, and

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Weekend Getaways and Holiday Attractions in New York

There’s no doubt that NYC comes to life during the holidays. From dazzling lights and parades to the thousands of tourists coming to take it all in.  If you’re looking for an alternative to the busy buzz of the city this holiday season, we’ve got you covered! Outside of the city, New York is full of charming destinations that are perfect for your end-of-year getaways. Enjoy the warmth of cozy mountain towns and new adventures. Here are a few must-see spots and tips on making your journey seamless with ParkNYC app. 1. Hudson Valley Light Displays Why Visit: Just under two hours from NYC, the Hudson Valley comes alive with enchanting light displays and holiday markets. Must-see events include the “Winter Wonderland” at Dutchess County Fairgrounds and Lyndhurst Mansion’s spectacular holiday lights. Stroll down the residential streets and marvel at the beautiful local displays. Parking Tips: Use ParkNYC app for on-street parking before heading to nearby train stations, like Grand Central, for a scenic ride into the region. 2. Adirondack Winter Adventures Why Visit: The Adirondacks are perfect for adventurous snow lovers. Enjoy everything from skiing, snowboarding, even snowshoeing, and cozy cabin stays. You won’t want to miss the stunning

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Five Best Apps for Parking in New York City During the Holiday Season

The holiday season in New York City is magical but chaotic—especially if you’re driving. Between holiday shopping, festive events, and seasonal traffic, finding parking can feel like an impossible task. Luckily, technology can save the day. Here’s a roundup of the best apps to make your NYC parking experience as smooth as possible this holiday season. SpotHero   SpotHero is a go-to app for reserving parking spots in advance, making it a lifesaver during the busy holiday season. With SpotHero, you can compare prices and book parking at garages across NYC, often with discounts. For holiday outings, it’s especially useful for securing spots near iconic attractions like Rockefeller Center or Bryant Park, where demand is at its peak.   BestParking   BestParking is an excellent choice if you’re looking to save money. The app specializes in comparing parking options by location and price, making it easy to find affordable garages and lots. If you’re willing to park on the outskirts of Manhattan, BestParking can help you locate budget-friendly options and pair them with public transit to avoid congestion.   ParkMobile   ParkMobile is a favorite for those relying on on-street parking, allowing you to pay for metered spaces directly from your phone. One of its

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