All metered parking in Ames will be free from Monday through Sunday, July 1, as Ames parking staff adjust the costs of meters.

According to a press release from the City of Ames, the prices will be raised for the first time in 20 years to cover higher maintenance costs and will take effect Monday, July 2.

The 900 parking meters’ rates across Campustown and downtown Ames will be different depending on the time limit on the meter. The rates will be $1 per hour for two-hour limit meters, 75 cents an hour for four-hour limit meters, and 50 cents an hour for 10-hour limit meters.

Metered parking will continue to run on all days except sundays and city holidays.

The updated meters will take payments in the form of coins, prepaid “smart cards,” and the mobile parking app, ParkMobile. Smart cards can be purchased at Ames City Hall.

Motorists should be aware: Parking limits will still be enforced through July 1 as the meters are being updated.

According to the press release, “the ParkMobile app provides pay-by-phone services for the collection of the parking meter fees. In addition, the app will map the City’s parking zones to show customers where parking is available in Campustown and Downtown areas. Once a customer selects a zone, the ParkMobile app will show users how much time is left on the meter and send notifications in advance of the time expiring, all remotely from their smart phone.”

For the full press release look below.