Downtown Chico Parking Free for First Two Hours Under New Program

The Chico City Council has approved a limited-time program offering free downtown parking for the first two hours to attract customers and evaluate economic impacts. - The program is expected to cost the city about $50,000 in lost revenue.

- Kiosks will remain in use despite some board members' objections. - Parking enforcement will increase patrols to enforce the two-hour limit.

- A separate downtown revitalization project was shelved due to a tied council vote. The initiative aims to encourage longer visits and support local businesses, though some residents question its effectiveness without broader improvements.