Tupelo police to enforce downtown parking limit

TUPELO, Miss. (WTVA) – The Tupelo Police Department will enforce the two-hour parking limit in the downtown area.

This follows complaints from business owners about people exceeding the limit.

The two-hour limit is posted on many streets in downtown Tupelo. The downtown parking zone includes several streets roughly from Tupelo Hardware to First United Methodist Church.

Businesses requested enforcement

Several businesses requested enforcement so customers can find places to park.

Gumtree Museum employee Ana Morgan Beckham said she previously parked in front of the museum.

“Before the two-hour period that started, I parked right out in front, and I loved that because it was just right next to the door,” Beckham said. “But now I park across the street behind a building. So now I park about a block away.”

Nicole, who frequents downtown Tupelo, said the limit could affect diners.

“That may make it difficult to go in and eat and have time and relax, if you’ve only got a two-hour limit. But if there’s open parking somewhere else, you know, nearby, that would suffice too,” Nicole said.

Hours and fines

Those who work downtown or plan to stay longer can park in lots such as the lot at the Depot.

Unless posted otherwise, the two-hour limit will be enforced Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The penalty is a $15 ticket, increasing to $50 after seven calendar days.