Paid parking at Montrose Beach will hurt low-income families, advocate says

dog park
Montrose Beach dog park, 2002 Photo credit Getty Images

As the city prepares to install paid parking at Montrose Beach and Harbor, a group that advocates for park users calls the move unfair to the city's low-income residents.

Juanita Irizarry, executive director of Friends of the Parks, said removing free parking spots at Montrose will take away an affordable option to enjoy the lakefront that low-income families depend on.

“A lot of families need free outlets for recreation,” she said.

She suggests a possible alternative: putting paid parking boxes in wealthier neighborhoods along the lakefront.

The Lightfoot administration hopes to help balance the city's budget with increased revenue from the parking fees.

Featured Image Photo Credit: Getty Images