Funding blocks plans for Salzburg old-town car park

Funding is complicating plans to redesign or repurpose the Red Cross car park on the Salzach river in Salzburg’s old town, ORF reported. The car park is not expected to continue operating in its current form, but the city has not yet decided on its future.

The car park was used for two weeks in July as a “city oasis” hosting small concerts and other events. A recreational zone has also been proposed.

Salzburg currently pays the Red Cross nearly 1.5 million euros a year from its budget for emergency services. Parking revenue provides an additional 500,000 euros for other Red Cross services beyond emergency response.

Mayor Bernhard Auinger of the Social Democratic Party said redesigning the car park would require more than 1 million euros. The cost would have to be addressed during budget negotiations, he said, adding that those proposing changes would also need to support a way of financing them.

Auinger therefore continues to support converting the car park into spaces for local residents and tradespeople. He said there was demand, pointing to a long waiting list for permanent parking permits in Salzburg’s old-town garages.