Council considers discount

Following recent winter storms, City Councilor Mike Ross (Back Bay, Fenway) called for a mandatory parking discount at downtown garages during snow emergencies that will go before the City Council this month.

The parking fee reduction is a result of the need for Boston residents to use the garages during declared storm emergencies that produce 5-10 inches of snow. Residents are required to move their cars off the streets to allow work vehicles to clear the roads.

Available parking garages post fees as high as $28 a night, which Ross said he hopes to lower by several dollars only during snow emergencies.

“Frankly, it’s a public issue to get cars off the street,” Ross said.

The discount would take place during snow storms deemed emergencies, which only occur up to three times a year, said City Councilor and Chair of the Transportation Board Paul Scapicchio (East Boston, Charlestown).

“I think the city needs to do more. … It’s a really good idea on Councilor Ross’ [part],” Scapicchio said.

Ross and Scapicchio are working to create legislation that would include a mandatory, renewable permit issued to garages each year requiring garage owners to negotiate an snow emergency discount.

“I think this is a realistic way to get this thing done,” Scapicchio said.

Large garages, including the Prudential Center and Boston Common garages, do not offer storm discounts, while a limited number of garages voluntarily lower their rates.

“The parking garages in the city are making a ton of money, and they don’t give a darn thing back,” Scapicchio said. “We should be able to call on these garages for other issues, as well.”

Ross said the high prices of the garages are not fair to the residents of Boston.

“I’m just looking out for my residents and the people who come into the city,” he said.

A hearing date has not yet been scheduled.