Kirkland Lifts Downtown Parking Restrictions And Fees Until March

KIRKLAND, WA — Kirkland is relaxing downtown parking restrictions in the downtown core as part of a continued push to encourage visits to local shops and restaurants. Beginning Wednesday, most time limits and parking fees will be waived, including those at city-owned parking lots downtown. The new rules will be in effect through March 1, 2021.

In a news release, city officials said time limits will still be enforced for designated curbside pickup spaces and new in-car dining stalls at Marina Park. Parking enforcement officers will continue to patrol for vehicles improperly parked in disabled spaces and those blocking fire hydrants, driveways or crosswalks.

The city pointed to extended coronavirus restrictions on restaurants, bars and retail shops as a factor in making the decision.

"State restrictions in response to COVID-19 have been devastating for businesses that depend on in-person customer experiences," said Toby Nixon, a Kirkland City Councilmember. "We must take appropriate measures to slow the spread of COVID-19, and for restaurants to reopen and for retail to operate at greater capacity. We encourage everyone to support our Kirkland businesses to help them weather this difficult time."

Shoppers looking to support local businesses can find a bounty of options on the Shop Local Kirkland website, including many with contactless pickup and delivery options. A new in-car dining program at Marina Park also allows families to have food delivered from several local restaurants and enjoy their meal set against the backdrop of Lake Washington.

Learn about the support available for local businesses on the city of Kirkland website.