The city of Phoenix is no longer considering the use of parking meters at its desert preserves. The move comes after public outcry and strong opposition from several city leaders.
The plan was being considered by the city parks department as a method of managing traffic and crowding at some of the city’s most popular trail heads.
Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton said he supports the parks department’s decision.
"And we want to make them as accessible as possible," Stanton said. "We want as many people as possible from all parts of the city to be able to enjoy the beauty the serenity the recreation opportunities that our desert preserves have to offer."
The proposal would have required hikers to pay up to $4 an hour to park at city-managed desert preserves.
