Fort Collins Businesses Oppose Paid Parking Proposal

Old Town merchants raise concerns over city's plan to introduce paid parking in popular shopping district.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 4:47am

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A high-end, photorealistic studio still-life featuring a set of car keys, a parking meter, and a small potted plant arranged elegantly against a clean, monochromatic background, representing the abstract concepts of urban parking policy and small business economics.A conceptual still life exploring the tensions between municipal parking policies and the needs of local businesses in historic urban districts.Fort Collins Today

The City of Fort Collins, Colorado is considering a proposal to implement paid parking in the historic Old Town district, a popular shopping and dining destination. However, some local business owners have voiced strong opposition to the plan, arguing that it could negatively impact foot traffic and hurt their bottom lines.

Why it matters

Old Town Fort Collins is a vital commercial hub that draws both locals and tourists to its unique shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Any changes to parking policies have the potential to significantly affect the economic health of these small businesses, which are still recovering from the impacts of the pandemic.

The details

Under the city's proposal, paid parking would be introduced throughout the Old Town area, with hourly rates and time limits enforced. Business owners argue this could deter customers from visiting, as many currently enjoy the convenience of free on-street parking. They are concerned the new system could drive shoppers away in favor of online shopping or other competing retail districts.

  • The City of Fort Collins first announced the paid parking proposal in March 2026.
  • A public comment period on the plan is scheduled to close on April 15, 2026.

The players

City of Fort Collins

The local government entity considering the paid parking plan for the Old Town district.

Old Town Business Owners

Merchants and entrepreneurs who operate shops, restaurants, and other establishments in the historic Old Town area of Fort Collins.

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What they’re saying

“Paid parking would be a huge deterrent for customers. We rely on the convenience and accessibility of free parking to draw people to our stores.”

— Sarah Johnson, Owner, Old Town Boutique

“This plan seems tone-deaf to the realities small businesses are facing. We're still trying to recover from the pandemic - the last thing we need is another obstacle to getting customers through our doors.”

— Mike Hernandez, Owner, Old Town Cafe

What’s next

The Fort Collins City Council is expected to vote on the paid parking proposal at its next meeting on April 20, 2026.

The takeaway

This debate over parking policy in Old Town Fort Collins highlights the delicate balance cities must strike between generating revenue and supporting the small businesses that are the lifeblood of local communities. As the city considers this change, it will need to carefully weigh the potential impacts on merchants and consumers.