City recommends users pay with Flowbird app to avoid glitches with current meters
Syracuse, N.Y. – Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh announced a replacement program for the City’s nearly ten-year-old fleet of 300 parking meters beginning in late summer or early fall. New meters were authorized by the Common Council and ordered in January, but global supply chain delays have slowed their arrival. Until the new meters are installed, the City is recommending users pay for parking using the Flowbird mobile app.
“The majority of our meters are more than a decade old, and they are testing the patience of many users. It’s taking longer than we expected for the new equipment to arrive. Once they are here, the Department of Public Works will move ahead with installation. Until then, the Flowbird app is the most reliable way to pay,” said Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh.
The City reports that some users are experiencing intermittent problems with the cash and credit card payment functions on the current meters. Because the equipment is based on an outdated platform, replacement is the only option to ensure reliable performance.
The first shipment of 150 new meters is expected to arrive in early to mid-August. DPW expects to replace the meters, which operate in Downtown Syracuse, multiple neighborhood business corridors, and around some major institutions, over the course of 18-24 months.
Metered parking in the City of Syracuse is in effect in designated areas from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturdays. Parking meters are located a short distance from metered spaces. The Flowbird mobile app is available for free download on Google Play or in the Apple App store.
