The City of Grand Junction plans to test parking meters that can accept coins, credit cards and mobile payments.

The pilot program will run through October and include wireless parking meters installed on Third Street south of Main Street and Sixth Street north and south of Main Street.

People who use the smart meters are encouraged to complete an online survey and offer their comments at https://engagegj.org/smartmeter.

The MacKay mkBeacon meter features a large display and keypad and accommodates coins, credit cards and mobile payments. The meter is powered by a solar panel and rechargeable battery pack that lasts up to five years.  Internal components are built with recycled plastics.

Nearly 1,200 parking meters operate within Grand Junction city limits to promote the use of parking spaces on a rotating basis.

City staff must replace a total of 4,000 AA batteries twice a year to keep the meters running. Moreover, the meters accept only coins or mobile payments.