Basalt to enforce two hour parking zones downtown

The Town of Basalt is introducing new enforcement measures for its long-standing two-hour parking zones downtown with the aim of encouraging turnover, supporting local businesses, and promoting alternative transportation. 

Starting June 1, the town will begin actively enforcing two-hour time limits in specific areas of Midland Avenue and Two Rivers Road, where regulations have historically been posted but rarely applied.

“The goal is to continue to create energy downtown and create conditions where more turnover can take place to bring in new customers for our businesses,” said Town Manager Ryan Mahoney.

A 2023 survey revealed that nearly 60 downtown employees routinely use public parking, occupying about half of the two-hour spaces currently available. In response, the town is seeking to reduce long-term vehicle storage in key business zones to make room for shoppers and visitors.

The two-hour limit will be enforced 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, including holidays. Parking will remain free throughout Basalt; however, violations within the downtown enforcement zone will incur a $60 fine.

In addition to enforcing the existing two-hour rules, the Town Council has amended its code to reduce the allowable duration for general parking from 72 hours to 24 hours, a change that will be enforced year-round. 

Following these updates, Basalt will offer 225 24-hour spaces and 119 two-hour spaces within the downtown core.

The designated enforcement area includes spaces in front of Town Hall and the Planning Office on Midland Spur, throughout the business corridor on Midland Avenue, in front of Design Workshop, Community Banks, and along the southwest side of Two Rivers Road through the end of the commercial zone.

For more information, including an interactive map and answers to frequently asked questions, residents and visitors can visit http://www.parkbasalt.com.