NEWPORT BEACH
The city is installing new “smart” parking meters, which will sense when drivers feed the meter beyond its one-hour limit.
The new meters are also able to detect when a car leaves the spot with time remaining and stealthily reset to zero.
Crews began installing the new meters on Balboa Boulevard near Newport Pier and between Palm and Main streets. The city is trying them out for 90 days. The idea is to discourage beachgoers from parking in metered spaces all day while baking on the beach, instead of spending money at neighborhood businesses.
By threatening lingering parkers with a $34 ticket, the city will encourage more turnover, which would increase business in the area, officials said.
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