Finding convenient and affordable parking in downtown Columbia, SC, can be straightforward when you know your options. The City of Columbia operates several parking decks and lots, and the Washington Street Garage, located at 1100 Washington St., stands out as a particularly accessible and user-friendly choice for visitors. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about parking at the Washington Street Garage and other city-operated parking facilities.
Discovering the Washington Street Garage
The Washington Street Garage is strategically positioned in downtown Columbia, making it an ideal parking location for those visiting local businesses, restaurants, or attractions. It operates on a “pay by plate” system, which is designed for ease of use and efficiency.
How to Use the Pay-by-Plate System at Washington Street Garage
Using the pay-by-plate system at the Washington Street Garage is simple and involves a few straightforward steps, as detailed in the original guide provided by the City of Columbia.
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Locate a Visitor Space: Visitor parking spaces are conveniently situated on levels 1A and 1B of the garage. Pay attention to signage to ensure you are parking in a designated visitor area.
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Note Your License Plate Number: When you park, make sure to remember your vehicle’s license plate number, as you will need to enter this information at the pay station.
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Find a Pay Station: Pay stations are located on each parking level for easy access.
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Enter Your License Plate Number: Wake up the machine by pressing any button and follow the prompts to enter your vehicle’s license plate number accurately.
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Select “Purchase Ticket”: Choose the “Purchase Ticket” option to begin your parking session.
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Insert Payment: The pay station accepts cash and credit cards. Insert your payment to cover your desired parking time.
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Optional Receipt: You will have the option to receive a receipt for your transaction. Select “OK” if you need a receipt for your records, or “Cancel” if you do not.
Pay-by-plate system step 1: Looking for space number in Washington Street Garage
Pay-by-plate system step 2: Entering license plate number at Washington Street Garage pay station
Washington Street Garage Rates and Payment Options
The Washington Street Garage offers competitive hourly and daily rates for visitor parking:
- First Half-hour: $1.00
- Second Half-hour: $1.00
- Each additional hour: $1.00
- Daily 5-hour maximum: $6.00
Accepted payment methods at the Washington Street Garage pay stations include cash and credit cards. An added convenience is the “extend-by-phone” mobile option, allowing you to add more parking time remotely if needed. Validation coupons may also be accepted.
Other Parking Decks and Lots in Columbia
Besides the Washington Street Garage, the City of Columbia manages a range of other parking facilities, each with its own features and visitor parking options. Here’s a brief overview:
- Arsenal Hill Garage (1812 Lincoln St.): Offers metered visitor parking on the lower level.
Arsenal Hill Parking Garage entrance in Columbia, SC
- Devine St. Garage (2221 Devine St.): Details are coming soon, but it is another parking option in Columbia.
Devine Street Parking Garage under construction in Columbia, SC
- Freed Deck (1575 Freed St.): Visitor parking is available on the lower level, payable via Passport Parking.
Freed Parking Deck sign in Columbia, SC
- Lady St. Garage (1100 Lady St.): Gated visitor parking with hourly rates, timed visitor parking on levels 1C & 2-B.
Lady Street Parking Garage entrance in downtown Columbia, SC
- Lincoln St. Garage (820 Washington St.): Gated visitor parking with hourly rates.
Lincoln Street Parking Garage facade in Columbia, SC
- Park St. Garage (1007 Park St.): Gated visitor parking with hourly rates.
Park Street Parking Garage exterior view in Columbia, SC
- PJ Cannon Garage (1227 Taylor St.): Visitor parking on level 1 and ramp, payable via Passport Parking.
PJ Cannon Parking Garage entrance with Passport Parking sign in Columbia, SC
- Sabal Deck (1014 Sabal St.): Visitor parking on the lower level, payable via Passport Parking.
Sabal Parking Deck entrance sign in Columbia, SC
- Sumter St. Garage (1400 Sumter St.): Gated visitor parking with hourly rates.
Sumter Street Parking Garage entrance in Columbia, SC
- Taylor St. Garage (1600 Assembly St.): Visitor parking on the lower level, payable via Passport Parking.
Taylor Street Parking Garage entrance in Columbia, SC
For gated parking decks (Lady St, Lincoln St., Park St., Sumter St.), visitor parking rates are consistent:
- 1st Half-hour: $1.00
- 2nd Half-hour: $1.00
- Each additional hour: $1.00
- Daily maximum: $10.00
Payment at gated decks is accepted in cash, credit card, and NFC payments (like Apple Pay & Google Pay).
Metered parking is also available in some areas with rates starting at $0.05 for 4 minutes. Payment options for metered parking include coins, City of Columbia parking smart cards, and tokens, as well as the Passport Parking app.
Passport Parking is available at Freed Deck, Sabal Deck, PJ Cannon Garage, and specific lots at 1127 Washington St and 1429 Park St.
Tips for Parking in Columbia, SC
- Plan Ahead: Especially during peak hours or events, parking spaces can fill up quickly. Check for garage locations in advance to plan your route.
- Consider Payment Methods: Be aware of the accepted payment methods at your chosen parking location, whether it’s cash, card, app-based, or pay-by-plate.
- Monthly Parking: For those needing regular parking, monthly parking options are available. Contact the Parking Services office for availability and details.
- Contact Parking Services: For any inquiries about monthly parking or further assistance, you can reach the Parking Services office at [email protected] or (803) 545-4015.
Conclusion
Whether you’re visiting downtown Columbia for a quick stop or an extended stay, understanding your parking options is key to a stress-free experience. The Washington Street Garage, with its convenient pay-by-plate system, alongside other City of Columbia parking facilities, provides ample choices for visitors. By utilizing this guide, you can confidently navigate parking in Columbia and focus on enjoying your visit.
