New London — The New London Parking Authority plans to increase rates for metered on-street parking and at the O’Neill-Tilley Municipal Lot beginning March 1.

Rates will increase the first hour to $1, $2 for the second hour and $2.50 for the third. Current rates are $1 for the first two hours, $1.50 for three hours and $2 for four hours.

The new metered rates are in part a result of new sales tax legislation that went into effect at the beginning of this year, a statement from the city reads. The rates remain below the national average.

Rates for long-term hourly, monthly and special event parking will not be affected.

Motorists are reminded that most parking in the city is free after 6 p.m. weekdays and all day weekends.

The New London Parking Authority will collect the sales tax, which goes to the state, and the balance of the revenue increase from the metered parking shall fund a variety of projects, including landscaping, asphalt repairs, signage and bike racks.

The NLPA anticipates the rate increase will encourage the use of public transit and other transportation alternatives including an on-demand bus system currently under evaluation and scheduled to start July 1.

The NLPA is working with vendors to adjust the kiosks. For more information about parking in New London, please visit parkinnewlondon.com.