News release

Parking rate increase proposed for Capitol Campus

OLYMPIA – Parking rates for zoned and leased parking on the Capitol Campus are proposed for a $5 monthly increase, which, if approved, would take effect January 1, 2008.

The rate increase would apply to about 6,000 parking customers in the Plaza Garage, the General Administration Garage, the Columbia Street Garage, the Natural Resources Building parking lots, and surface lots on the East and West Campus.

A portion of the proposed rate increase would cover rising operating costs and a portion would finance the Plaza Garage renovation when the last phase of that project is authorized by the Legislature. Costs for parking include utilities, enforcement, maintenance and operation along with financing of projects to repair or renovate parking garages and other capital expenses related to parking facilities.

The rate increase is also necessary to meet the Legislature’s requirement that parking fees cover the cost of parking services.

Two public meetings about the proposal are scheduled:

• 3 p.m. July 19, General Administration auditorium
• 6 p.m. July 26, General Administration auditorium.

Parking rates were last increased in 2005.

Comments about the proposal can be submitted online at: http://www.ga.wa.gov/Park/FeeIncrease.htm

General Administration parking information: http://www.ga.wa.gov/Park/employee.htm