The use of parking meters in cities like Puebla and other parts of the country aims to improve public space, although in some localities there are no transparent mechanisms, such as a trust fund, that guarantee the allocation of these resources. In Puebla, the parking meter program was temporarily suspended due to the change in administration. The revenues generated could be allocated to finance infrastructure, insurance against vandalism and theft, ensuring safe spaces for parking vehicles on public roads.
According to studies by the Mexican Transportation Association, the streets of the Historic Center of Puebla provide between 900 and 1,000 parking spaces, with a turnover rate of 6.5 uses per space per day. The importance of the Citizen Security Secretariat intervening to ensure the safety of motorists and their vehicles was emphasized, complementing the use of cameras and technological tools.
The mayor of Puebla, José Chedraui Budib, emphasized the importance of ensuring that companies operating the parking meters consider discounts for senior citizens, students, and people with disabilities. Four companies have submitted proposals regarding the parking meters in Puebla, and the bidding process is expected to take place next week.
Anuar Musalem Valencia, director of the Mexican Transportation Association, highlighted the need for thorough technical studies and transparency in the allocation of resources generated by the parking meters. He emphasized the importance of a technical assessment prior to the resumption of parking meter operations, which includes various relevant indicators such as usage and availability of spaces.
In an interview, the mobility specialist mentioned that the creation of a trust fund would be an effective tool for properly managing resources in public spaces. He stated that municipal councilors have the responsibility to provide clear accounts to the citizens and that the change in government is an opportunity to rethink the implementation of the parking meters.
