Portland adds moped/motorcycle parking downtown

The addition of these new dedicated spaces will help alleviate parking congestion downtown by freeing up spaces for cars and make it easier for commuters using vehicles like mopeds and motorcycles to find a space.

Encouraging commuters to use a moped or motorcycles can reduce traffic congestion downtown and help in the city's efforts to reduce fossil fuel consumption and avert greenhouse gas emission. Dedicating motorcycle and moped parking spaces is also a safe and legal way to ensure that two-wheeled vehicles are properly parked on the street.

"Improving access to the downtown for mopeds and motorcycles is a part of the city's long term transportation strategy to promote different modes of transportation," remarked City Councilor and Transportation Committee Chair Kevin Donoghue. "With rising fuel prices, more and more people are looking to mopeds and other low-impact, efficient modes of transportation. Adding these spaces is an economical way to maximize parking in the downtown and make the two-wheel option more attractive for residents and commuters."

Crews are currently posting new parking signs and painting space lines at the dedicated spots and expect to complete the installation this month. Seven motorcycle and moped parking spaces are already available on Temple Street at the intersection with Free Street. The other spaces to be added are:

Bramhall Street at Hill Street (4 spaces)

Commercial Street at Union Wharf (6 spaces)

Congress Street at Myrtle Street (2 spaces)

High Street between Spring Street and Congress Street (4 spaces)

Myrtle Street at Congress Street (2 spaces)

Silver Street at Fore Street (3 spaces)

State Street at Deering Street (3 spaces)

Temple Street at Free Street (7 spaces)