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CLEARWATER, Fla. — The next time you go to Downtown Clearwater or Clearwater Beach, you’ll be paying more to park.
The new rates went into effect on Oct. 1, 2025.
The city said the rates will encourage turnover and better support downtown.
Lao Deli, a pop-up restaurant, is partnering with Chiang Mai Thai and Sushi Bar in Downtown Clearwater to share their love for Lao food.
“We know we can reach the masses about Lao food in this area,” said Somsai Thongsavanh, co-owner of Lao Deli.
Being in Downtown Clearwater, Thongsavanh said they see their fair share of tourists during the spring and winter months.
“I wish that folks would just come down when there’s a concert, there are events that’s happening, go check out the calendar,” Thongsavanh said.
On-street parking is going from 50 cents to $1 an hour, and downtown garages are now 75 cents an hour.
“I don’t know how much that’s going to affect that. It’s a slight increase. So, it’s one of those things where we’ll see what happens,” he said.
The owner of Chiang Mai Thai, who’s had the busines for 18 years agrees. She said she doesn’t expect much to change.
“We’re seeing people come and go all the time. Prices on things go up, go down, and it didn’t affect anything,” said Nola Louvon, Chiang Mai Thai and Sushi Bar.
Beach parking is also going up. On-street parking is now $4 an hour, and lots are rising to $3.50 an hour.
“I don’t feel good about it, but hopefully they’ll do something about it and make it lower,” said Pierre Kayrouz, beachgoer.
Either way, Thongsavanh said he’s optimistic for the future because he said the area has a lot to offer.
“Once you come through here, you’ll want to come back again,” Thongsavanh said.
And hopefully, Thongsavanh said, you’ll have some Lao food too.
Clearwater residents can get a 50% discount on both downtown and beach parking. They just have to apply for a permit.
The BayCare Sound will also have a new flat rate for large events. Starting two hours before the event, parking will be $5.
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Tyler O’Neill
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