Is this just a money grab by the city?

Not at all. The primary goal of updating our parking system is to create consistent turnover on the Square so that visitors can reliably find a parking spot. While the transition to pay-by-plate does ensure all used time is accounted for, every single dollar generated from downtown parking goes straight back into Oxford. These funds are heavily relied upon to maintain our vibrant downtown, upkeep our streets, and plan for future, long-term parking infrastructure that will benefit the whole community.

Isn’t making people pay more going to hurt our local downtown businesses?

Actually, the new system is designed to do the exact opposite! A thriving downtown relies on a steady flow of customers. Under the old system, premium spots were frequently occupied by a single car all day—especially on game days—which meant customers driving to the Square couldn't find a place to park and would often leave. By encouraging parking turnover, these kiosks ensure that our local shops and restaurants see a constant, reliable stream of visitors throughout the day.

I just need to run inside a store for five minutes. Do I really have to go stand in line at a kiosk?

You don't have to use the kiosk at all if you are in a hurry! The fastest and most convenient way to park is by using the Passport Parking App on your smartphone. You can easily start your parking session as you walk to your destination. Furthermore, because the new system increases parking turnover, you are much more likely to find a spot right in front of your destination for that quick five-minute errand.

What if the kiosk nearest to me is broken? Will I get a ticket because I couldn't pay?

Redundancy is built into the new system to prevent this exact issue. If a kiosk is temporarily out of service, you can simply walk to any other nearby kiosk on the Square to complete your transaction, as they are all connected to the same network. Alternatively, you can always use the Passport Parking App on your phone to start your session immediately without needing a physical kiosk.

Why do I have to enter my license plate number? Is the city trying to track my movements?

Entering your license plate simply links your payment directly to your vehicle, eliminating the need to walk back to your car to put a paper receipt on your dashboard. This system is entirely about parking enforcement efficiency and user convenience. The data is securely processed solely for the purpose of verifying active parking sessions, ensuring a fair experience for everyone visiting the Square.

This seems too complicated for older residents or those who aren't tech-savvy. Why fix what wasn't broken?

We understand that any new system takes a little getting used to, which is why the kiosks were selected specifically for their large, user-friendly screens and clear prompts. The traditional meters were reaching the end of their lifespan and required constant maintenance. The new kiosks are reliable and offer multiple ways to pay, accepting coins and major credit cards, ensuring that anyone can easily use the system regardless of their comfort level with technology.

Why should I have to pay for a full hour if the person before me left 30 minutes early?

The new pay-by-plate system ensures that everyone is treated equally and fairly. Physical parking spaces no longer hold "time." Instead, you are paying for the exact duration your specific vehicle occupies a space. This eliminates the unpredictability of searching for a meter with leftover time and creates a level playing field, guaranteeing that when a spot opens up, it is immediately ready for the next patron to use and enjoy the Square.