FENWICK ISLAND, Del. – While parking costs have steadily risen along the coast in recent years, Fenwick Island is considering a proposal that could offer relief to some local businesses.
The Fenwick Island Business Committee has suggested a reduced seasonal parking pass for businesses in town, aiming to help employees park closer to their workplaces. Currently, businesses pay $500 for a seasonal pass that allows employees to park on side streets. Under the new proposal, that cost would be cut in half to $250, making it more affordable for businesses to purchase additional passes for their employees.
Local resident Billy Williams supports the idea, noting the challenges of finding parking during the peak summer season. “For the most part, we can usually find a spot with our pass,” Williams said. “But if we didn’t have pass requirements, then it would be a dog-eat-dog world up there.”
According to Fenwick Island Mayor Natalie Magdeburger, if the proposal is approved, the reduced parking passes would only be valid between 4 p.m. and 10 p.m., ensuring that vacationers can still access the spaces during the day to enjoy the beach. Additionally, only a limited number of these discounted passes would be available if it is approved, and they would apply only to specific underutilized parking spots in town.
Williams believes this plan strikes a balance between employees and visitors. “I think that would be beneficial to both parties,” he said. “I don’t see it being a problem for the evening rush hour.”
The Fenwick Island Town Council is set to discuss the proposal at its meeting this Friday.