The City of Alameda continues to make steady progress on the Civic Center Parking Structure Renovation, and the project is now anticipated to be completed by the end of May. A new parking payment system also will be launched in the coming weeks, including a mobile payment option.
The City encourages drivers who need to park to go directly to the parking garage rather than circling the area looking for on-street parking, in order to reduce traffic congestion and increase safety in this pedestrian-heavy area. Parking spaces are almost always available in the parking structure, which is located next to the Alameda Theatre and within a 5- to 10-minute walk of most Park Street businesses.
Plus, parking in the garage saves money. Parking rates there are half the cost of nearby parking meters and hours during which payment is required end an hour earlier than on the street.
Updated payment options
In the coming weeks, the City will implement a new parking payment system where people pay by license plate number rather than parking space number, and there will be a mobile payment option. Updated signage will be installed throughout the facility.
Here’s how the new payment system will work:
- Park your car.
- Note your license plate.
- Pay at a ground floor pay station or through a mobile option: Use the Park Smarter app or Text-to-Pay.
During this transition, there may be a short period where paid parking is temporarily suspended and parking will be free of charge.
About the renovation
Full details about the changes and upgrades are outlined on the City of Alameda Civic Center Parking Structure Renovation webpage. The changes will modernize the facility, improve safety and accessibility, and address long-standing maintenance needs. Work includes new vehicle access-control doors, pedestrian gates, and decorative panels at open-air sections to allow the garage to be securely closed during non-operating hours. The upper level will be secured for City fleet vehicles.
Additional improvements include replacing the parking guidance system, upgrading to energy-efficient LED lighting, painting interior and exterior surfaces with anti-graffiti coatings, repairing the neon marquee, and moving bike lockers closer to the entrance.
The project also advances several ADA improvements identified on the City’s Making Alameda Accessible webpage. The planned changes will include detectable warning strips, visual contrast markings on stair treads, updated van-accessible parking stalls, and preparation for improved EV charging accessibility.
Construction progress
The majority of interior painting has been completed, with remaining exterior work along Oak Street and the CVS frontage continuing through April, according to the City. Upcoming work includes installation of security fencing, gates, electrical upgrades, and lighting improvements. As before, the contractor may require full or partial floor closures to safely complete this work.
Monthly permit spaces will be moved down a level towards the ground floor, marked by signs. These spaces are reserved for permit holders Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Learn more about the permits on the City’s Monthly Parking Permits webpage.
Please email any questions to [email protected].
