Some area residents say it’s too much, but a recent increase in daily parking fees at Wrightsville Beach is necessary to meet growing service demands and maintain a safe, high-quality beach experience, town officials said recently.

“Parking revenue plays a crucial role in funding essential municipal services, particularly those required to maintain a safe and enjoyable beach environment,” said Haynes Brigman, Wrightsville Beach town manager. “These services include public safety (police, fire, and ocean rescue), sanitation (trash collection and public restrooms) and critical infrastructure projects, such as beach renourishment, all of which are vital to preserving Wrightsville Beach for residents and visitors alike.”

As of March 1, Wrightsville Beach increased daily parking rates, with regular spots rising from $25 to $30 and premium spots from $30 to $35, while hourly rates of $5 to $6 remained unchanged.

Brigman recently indicated that the town has not received much feedback on the rate hikes. But a petition on Change.org has collected over 11,000 signatures calling for the reinstatement of free beach access from 5 p.m. to 9 a.m.

“Our goal is to make the beach more accessible for all residents of New Hanover County and the surrounding cities,” said Julimaria Cullins, a board member of the Wrightsville Beach Surf Mamas, who initiated the petition. “If it is not affordable, it is not accessible. … We understand that there is a need for charging, but the egregious costs and extended parking hours have gotten out of hand and make it financially impossible for many people to enjoy without compromising their budget or sacrificing other essential expenses.”

In the 2023-24 fiscal year, the town’s parking revenue increased by $1.3 million, and the town collected $8 million from parking meters, according to town documents.

With summer visitors peaking at 40,000, the demand for essential services has increased significantly, said Brigman.
“To support these efforts, the town relies on local tax revenue, room occupancy tax (from hotels and short-term rentals) and parking fees,” he said. “We are committed to maintaining a balance, ensuring that the financial responsibility is shared fairly while keeping the beach safe, clean and accessible for all.”

The decision to raise the daily parking rate came from a recommendation by Pivot Parking, the town’s contractor. This change was driven by rising costs for beach services and increased parking demand.

“One of the most common misconceptions is that access to the beach should come at little or no cost,” Brigman said. “While the beach is a valued public asset, the town of Wrightsville Beach is responsible for ensuring the safety and comfort of those who visit.”

The Change.org petition language encourages residents who support reinstating free beach parking hours from 5 p.m. to 9 a.m. to attend the next Wrightsville Beach Board of Aldermen meeting on April 10 at 5:30 p.m.