Plaza Zona Colonial parking rate under review amid public backlash

Santo Domingo.- Amid public criticism over the RD$100 per hour fee at the newly inaugurated Plaza Zona Colonial parking facility, José Desiderio Cedeño, director of Parquéate RD, announced that the rate is under review. Cedeño acknowledged concerns from residents and business owners who find the fee excessive, especially given its short hourly duration. He noted that while options are limited in the area, efforts are underway to explore a more affordable pricing model.

The parking facility, located at the corner of Arzobispo Meriño Street and Mella Avenue, was inaugurated by President Luis Abinader on July 10 and will officially open on August 1. It includes 352 parking spaces and forms part of the broader Parquéate RD initiative.

The program, set to expand citywide starting August 4 with towing enforcement and RD$5,000 fines for illegal parking, has sparked further concern. Initially implemented in the Naco sector, it will soon extend to other areas, including La Fe, Villa Consuelo, and the eastern part of the capital. Cedeño emphasized that Parquéate RD is part of the national “RD se mueve” mobility plan, which also includes synchronized traffic lights, the addition of 700 new signals, staggered schedules, and the creation of new parking areas.