Sacramento Curbside Car Sharing Expansion Would Cost Parking Spaces

SACRAMENTO (CBS13) — Sacramento city leaders are pushing for more curbside car sharing. While new a proposal would bring more money into the city, it could also create more parking problems for drivers.

Whether it's an international bike race or a high school commencement ceremony, if it's event night in Downtown Sacramento, you can bet on a parking nightmare.

"It stinks. It's a pain," said one driver.

Another driver said, "Traffic is bad and I've been circling around."

The City of Sacramento is speeding toward its goal of increasing mobility, but for drivers that could mean even fewer parking spaces.

"That's going to make it worse!"

On Tuesday, city officials will present a permitting plan for car sharing companies to the Law and Legislative Committee. Companies like Zipcar, which allow drivers to essentially rent a car straight from city streets, would be granted parking privileges for a fee. It's a revenue generator but could come at an inconvenient price for downtown commuters like Emmy Phan.

"If there's already more permits coming out there it's going to be harder for the average Joe to find parking," said Phan.

"We really support mobility for all," said WALKSacramento Executive Director Kirin Kumar.

WALKSacramento is on board with any effort to offer cleaner and smarter transportation.

"I think this is a step in the right direction. We're going to see the curbside or the curb space becoming more and more valuable," said Kumar.

City officials also plan to set aside a public space for electric vehicle charging.

A push to expand on streetcar sharing in Sacramento that could push drivers out of public parking spots.

"Maybe it will work for some people, maybe it won't for others," said Phan.

City officials will take recommendations from Tuesday night's meeting and present those to city council for a final vote.