About

Because how we park shapes how we live.

The way people move through El Cerrito is changing.

In recent years, the City has seen increased development, especially near our BART stations and along San Pablo Avenue, with more housing units planned for construction. As housing grows to address the affordable housing crisis, and state policies encourage less reliance on cars, how we manage parking—especially on our streets—is becoming an increasingly important issue.

Our story

A forward-looking vision to make parking smarter

‍In anticipation of increased development, particularly around El Cerrito Plaza, the City is launching parkEC: a comprehensive overhaul of our parking system that will roll out beginning in late 2026. This program is being created through research and analysis, community input, and ultimately by putting together a forward-looking vision to make parking smarter, more intuitive, and easier to use for everyone.

The story began back in 2018, when the City’s Community Development and Public Works Departments teamed up to examine parking and mobility near the El Cerrito Plaza and del Norte BART stations. The findings were clear: parking congestion, confusing rules, and a patchwork system were affecting quality of life, business access, and the City’s ability to support transit-oriented development.

Since then, El Cerrito has laid the groundwork for a new approach—one centered on simplicity, access, and long-term viability. Working alongside national parking management experts, the City has taken a closer look at how curb space is used, how parking affects daily life, and what improvements are needed to meet the community’s growing demands. With major housing developments and shifting transportation trends now is the time to modernize how parking works in El Cerrito.

OUR UPDATES

New Developments on their way

Over the coming months, residents and businesses will begin to see this new program begin to take shape. From digital permits and virtual enforcement to clearer signage and a more cohesive permit system, parkEC is being designed to grow and evolve alongside changes in our community.

We want to hear from you! As the parkEC program is being developed please provide input on your needs, concerns, and comments on all things related to parking in the City of El Cerrito! Milestones to watch include community outreach and surveys this Fall, draft proposals this Winter, and final recommendations by early 2026. The program will officially begin rolling out in phases in late 2026, with community feedback continuing to guide every step.

STAY IN THE LOOP