Zakopane streets in the tourist season are experiencing a siege. The number of visitors to the city means that finding a parking space borders on a miracle, and residents often cannot park near offices, clinics or schools. So the city authorities decided to act.
Orange envelopes are specially marked parking spaces that are in the city's strategic points, including at the City Hall, ZUS or courts. They can only be used by holders of the Zakopane Card Card with the active subscription “Zakopane”. The maximum parking time is 60 minutes, and after its expiration, the driver must leave the place or pay the fee in the parking meter.
Zakopane. How much does parking in the capital of the Tatra Mountains cost?
Zakopane also introduced new, diverse parking rates depending on the driver's status. Residents pay less, and tourists have to take into account higher fees. For example, in the most crowded zone A (around Krupówki) the first hour costs PLN 6, the second 7.20 PLN, and the third 8.60 PLN.
For comparison, the “Zakopane” subscription holders can park free of charge once a day in the paid parking zone for 120 minutes or twice 60 minutes. After using the free limit, they pay less than tourists for each subsequent hour.
Orange envelopes in Zakopane. Controversy around the new rules
Although the idea of orange envelopes met with a positive reception among the local community, there is no shortage of criticism on the network. Some commentators accuse the city authorities that the introduction of separate places and tariffs divides people into “our” and “strangers”.
There are also fears that this approach may discourage tourists from visiting Zakopane. “Will we soon see separate ticket prices for Kasprowy Wierch or various menu in restaurants for residents and visitors?” – Internet users ask.
Orange envelopes. Zakopane follows global trends?
Similar solutions already operate in many cities around the world, such as Barcelona, Venice and London, where local residents have privileged access to some parking spaces. However, in Poland it is a precedent that can become an inspiration for other tourist towns, such as Sopot, Karpacz and Szklarska Poręba.
Source: Interia Automotive
