Cruising for parking

Underpriced curb parking leading to traffic congestion, air pollution, fuel wastage, and accidents due to drivers cruising for parking spaces. Cities should charge market rates for curb parking, at least equal to the price of adjacent off-street parking, to eliminate cruising. This article outlines how adjusting street parking rates can improve environmental sustainability, and more effectively manage transit demand. It also notes how cruising for parking can take between 3.5 and 14 minutes and can constitute 8 to 74 percent of traffic in congested downtown areas.