During the recent City Council Budget Workshop for 2025, Ferndale officials highlighted significant developments in the city’s parking management system. A key focus was the transition from a pay-by-space to a pay-by-plate system, which is expected to be implemented before summer. This change aims to streamline parking payments and enhance user convenience.

The city forecasts generating approximately $2.15 million in paid parking from on-street and surface lot fees, alongside an additional $236,000 from permit fees annually. Currently, the city processes around 600,000 transactions each year, indicating a robust demand for parking services. However, officials noted that a portion of citations issued—around 80%—are collected, while others may go to collections or be dismissed by the court.

The discussion also touched on the maintenance of parking systems, which is managed in collaboration with service providers to ensure efficiency and reliability. As the city moves forward with these initiatives, residents can anticipate improved parking experiences that align with Ferndale's commitment to enhancing urban infrastructure.