modern car on parking spot
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Newport’s summer parking program is getting an upgrade, giving residents more perks and flexibility.

From May 1 through October 31, those with residential parking passes can enjoy three free hours of parking at any metered spot in the city, including the Mary Street Parking Lot.

The city announced Tuesday, “This year, Newport residential parking pass holders will be entitled to three free hours of parking in every metered space across the City, as well as the Mary Street Parking Lot.  Parking at Easton’s Beach will also be free for Newport residents throughout the summer with no need to purchase a separate parking pass.”

To use the free parking, just enter your license plate number at pay stations or through the Passport mobile app.

Paid parking is active from 9 a.m. to midnight downtown and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. in other metered areas. Rates vary from $1.50 to $2 per hour, depending on where you park.

The city recommends using the Passport Mobile App for easy payment. You can set up an account, pick the zone number, and input your vehicle info to manage your parking.

Pay stations take credit cards and coins, with a minimum credit card charge of one hour.

The Mary Street Parking Lot is a self-pay facility open 24/7. It costs $3 per hour or $20 per day, but Newport residents also get three free hours.

At the Gateway Center Parking Lot, you’ll pay $5 per hour, charged in 30-minute chunks. There are discounts for weekly and monthly parking.

Heads up – the Long Wharf Lot is closed this summer due to ongoing work.

Visitors should note that residential parking rules are in effect until October 1. Parking in residential areas might require a permit, a visitor pass, or a temporary parking permit.

The city advises, “Motorists should check posted signs before parking.”

For more details on Newport’s parking programs, check out Chapter 10.32 of the City’s Code of Ordinances or call the Transportation Supervisor at (401) 845-5712.

Ryan Belmore is the owner and publisher of What's Up Newp. He took over the publication in 2012 and has grown it into a three-time Rhode Island Monthly Best Local News Blog (2018, 2019, 2020). He was named LION Publishers Member of the Year in 2020 and received the Dominique Award from the Arts & Cultural Society of Newport County the same year. He has been awarded grants for investigative and community journalism, and continues to coach and mentor new local news publications nationwide. Ryan...