New Bedford Launches Free Holiday Parking Program Early for 2025

NEW BEDFORD (WBSM) — The City of New Bedford has started its annual Holiday Parking Program a little earlier this year, with two hours of free parking now available in the downtown parking garages and at meters in the North End along Acushnet Avenue.

The Holiday Parking Program for 2025 kicked off today. In the past, the program has usually started in late November, such as in 2023, or early December, as it did last year and in 2022.

“Traditionally launched after Thanksgiving, the program is starting early this year to encourage more people to explore the unique shops and restaurants downtown and in the North End,” the City stated in a release.

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Ticket Forgiveness Is Available

For downtown shoppers and diners, in addition to free parking at the Elm Street and Zeiterion garages, there is also ticket forgiveness for those who receive a ticket for an expired parking meter downtown. In order to have your ticket forgiven, you must present a same-day sales receipt for at least $20 from a downtown merchant or restaurant to the New Bedford Traffic Commission.

This is an increase from the $10 receipt requirement in previous years.

Receipts must be presented or mailed to the New Bedford Traffic Commission Office in the Elm Street Garage within three weeks (21 days) of receiving the ticket. Ticket forgiveness is also available to those who are ticketed for expired meters over the free two hours in the North End along Acushnet Avenue.

Where Is the New Bedford Traffic Commission Office Located?

The Traffic Commission office is located at 51 Elm Street inside the Elm Street Garage and is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Questions regarding the Holiday Parking Program can be directed to the Traffic Commission office at (508) 961-3153.