eCabs CEO: On-Street Parking Fees Could Be A Solution To Malta’s Traffic Problem
In response to Malta’s persistent parking and traffic congestion issues, eCabs CEO Andrew Bezzina is championing the introduction of on-street parking fees.
This proposal aims to alleviate traffic congestion in Malta’s densely populated urban zones and stimulate a shift towards public transportation.
Bezzina shared his insights on TVMNews+’ programme Insights, where he dived into the multifaceted challenges Malta faces concerning traffic congestion and parking spaces.
He argued that while private transport is a necessity, it should not dominate the mobility landscape. Rather, a “policy of inclusion” that encourages diverse modes of travel should be pursued more assertively.
“If I know that where I’m going I’ll find parking spaces, I will most probably use my private car.”
He emphasised the opportunity cost of curb-side parking, noting that parking spaces could easily be transformed into wider pavements, bicycle lanes, or scooter lanes, enhancing the experience for pedestrians and cyclists.
Bezzina suggested that dedicating spaces for car parking comes at the expense of these alternative, potentially more sustainable uses.
Drawing inspiration from successful urban parking policies in other European cities, Bezzina proposed a fee for curb-side parking, particularly in high-traffic localities such as Valletta, Sliema, and St Julian’s.
He reasoned that “free street parking comes at a cost” as it monopolizes valuable public real estate that could be repurposed for pedestrian-friendly spaces, greener environments, or cycle lanes.
Bezzina pushed his proposal further, advocating for on-street parking fees in high-density urban areas. “what lessons can we glean from other European cities that have already experimented with urban parking policies?”
Do you agree with this proposal?