Milwaukee’s Common Council is considering a measure to increase parking fines as part of the 2025 city budget, with the proposal currently under committee discussion. The full council will vote on November 8, potentially making higher fines a reality next year. The plan is expected to bring in an additional $2 million in revenue, with newly hired parking checkers boosting enforcement.

The proposed increases range from $5 to $10 for most violations, with higher penalties for severe infractions, like parking in handicapped spaces, jumping from $200 to $300. According to Department of Public Works (DPW) Commissioner Jerrel Kruschke, the initiative aims to “crack down on behaviors that go against safety and access” while encouraging residents to walk or use public transportation instead of relying on cars.

While the proposal is being presented as a safety measure, it comes at the same time as the ongoing debate about funding Milwaukee’s streetcar, The Hop, which is facing a $4 million shortfall as federal relief funds run out. City officials maintain that the increased parking fines are not meant to cover the streetcar’s budget, but some, like Alderman Scott Spiker, have raised concerns about whether the revenue might indirectly support The Hop.

Monthly ridership on Milwaukee’s streetcar, The Hop, has fluctuated significantly since its peak in 2019. Before the pandemic, average monthly ridership was around 63,455. However, the pandemic led to a sharp decline in ridership throughout 2020 and 2021, with numbers dropping below 20,000 at times. Despite gradual increases in 2022 and some peaks in 2023, ridership has yet to consistently return to pre-pandemic levels. As of early 2024, ridership remains variable, often below the pre-pandemic average, highlighting ongoing challenges in attracting passengers back to the streetcar. Keep in mind with all of this the streetcar has been free to ride.  

DPW officials emphasize that the fines are designed to ensure compliance and improve safety rather than subsidize transit. However, drivers remain skeptical of increased enforcement, calling for more investment in alternative transit options. “Expand the trolley or advertise more on the trolley,” said resident Josiah Penniman. “Make sure that people don’t have to use cars as much.”

CBS 58 reporter, Michelle Fiore, posted the rate changes on X. They can be viewed here: