Pilot program changes some metered parking in downtown Lincoln to short-term loading zone

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — The city is making some changes to downtown parking — at least temporarily.

On Tuesday, the city announced that it has started a 60-day pilot program along two blocks of O Street.

The parking spaces between 13th Street and Centennial Mall are now short-term loading zones, instead of two-hour metered parking, during key hours.

From 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday, they will be a 30-minute loadings zone.

From 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. Monday through Saturday, they will be a 15-minute loading zone.

Handicap-accessible spaces will be available at all times, the city said.

“These temporary changes allow us to test new strategies that support people’s experience and convenience downtown,” Urban Development Director Peter Hind said in a press release. “We’re looking at how we can make downtown more welcoming, more efficient, and more enjoyable for everyone who lives, works, visits, or does business here.”

Pita & Nann, a restaurant in the area, said the change would make it easier for customers to find a parking spot to pick up takeout orders.