LEWES, Del. - The M&T Bank parking lot in downtown Lewes is now open for metered public parking, just in time for the summer season. It will cost $1 an hour to park at the lot that's at the corner of Third and Market Streets.
"We desperately need the space,” said Dennis Crawford, Lewes Supervisor of Parking Enforcement. The lot opened for the first time on Saturday.
"I think it went really well, each spot has a sign in front of it which is not typical for us,” said Crawford. The city has a two year lease with the bank.
There are 33 available spaces in Lewes at the M&T bank parking lot. 10 spots are dedicated to the city, 17 are dedicated for M&T Bank, there are two ADA compliant spaces, and four spots are for Hotel Rodney.
Plus, once the bank closes at 6 p.m., those 17 extra spots will open up for metered parking.
"It's good for people coming to town, good for business, but we still have a three hour limit on parking,” said Crawford.
Business owners are more than happy to have more parking near their stores.
"I'm thrilled that it's open, because I always thought that should be used because it wasn't used that much for their employees, and even customers, but we really did need the space,” said Twila Farrell, owner of Twila Farrell.
From 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. there are a few rules that you have to follow. You cannot park in bank designated spots during its business hours, if you are not going into the bank. You will be ticketed. There is head in parking only, and you must pay everyday, including holidays.
"I think it's wonderful, I'm sure the local restaurants and shops are thrilled to have more parking. It's not nearly enough, but I know the city has been working hard to find solutions to the parking situation, but this is the beginning,” said Brenda Afzal from Lewes.
The metered parking is in effect now until October 14th.
