Marin Ferry Commuters Hit with New Parking Fee

The days of free parking at the Larkspur ferry terminal are over.

The Golden Gate Bridge, Highway and Transportation District board voted today to start charging a fee for parking at the Larkspur ferry terminal. 

Commuters parking in the 1,800-space lot will now be charged a $2 daily fee or a $20 monthly fee, according to the plan approved by the board today.

The lot has been free since the 1970s, but demand is increasing, district spokeswoman Mary Currie said.

"Our parking lot has been filling up by 8:15 every morning," Currie said.

The district will continue to encourage commuters to reach the  ferry terminal by bus or other options where possible, and hopes to expand a  free shuttle service from the Ross Valley area to the terminal, officials  said.

The fee, which will apply on weekdays only from 5 a.m. to 3 p.m., will help generate an estimated $400,000 a year to help offset the costs of  operating ferries, district officials said. Currently, fares cover only around half of ferry operating costs.

Commuters will be able to pay for a parking space using a smart phone app, online using a web app, or by calling a toll free number and paying with a credit card. District staff is still exploring ways that those  without credit cards can pay for parking.

Other transit districts in the Bay Area charge fees for parking ranging from $1.50 to $5 a day.

- Bay City News contributed to this report.

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