An item to discuss the number of taxi parking spaces in the City was referred for discussion by this committee at the March 17, 2021 City Commission meeting (item C4M).

The parking department has recognized the popularity of ride share programs and its impact on the taxi industry and has been monitoring the use of taxi spaces, actively modifying and adjusting as needed due to demand. However, the Department recognizes taxicab service is the only approved demand or hail service in the County; services like Uber and Lyft  are classified as pre-arranged service.  During surge pricing times or for customers who do not have access to a cell phone, taxicab service is still a transportation choice. 

The Parking Department works with the County in determining the appropriate location, times and number of taxicab stands and taxicab spaces citywide.

Below is information of number of stands and spaces:

2017:  56 taxicab stands, 144 spaces 

2019:  49 taxicab stands, 107 spaces (includes 5 stands with 16 flex spaces)*

2021:  43 taxicab stands, 91 spaces (includes 4 stands with 15 flex spaces)*

*“Flex” taxicab stands were introduced to allow public parking in taxicab stands during low demand times.  Where there is day demand, the stand is released for public use in the evening and vice versa.

In total, in the last four (4) years, 13 taxicab stands and 53 spaces have been removed.  The County has advised taxicab demand has begun to increase.  We will continue to monitor and further adjust taxicab stand locations and number of spaces to meet increased or reduced demand.