Virginia Beach, Va. (WAVY) — Parking at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront has become a pressing issue for residents, who say they’re struggling to find parking in their own neighborhoods. Now, the Atlantic Avenue Association, a community welfare group, is calling on the city to improve access to affordable public parking for both residents and tourists. The group, which represents local businesses, civic leagues and residents, said ongoing development along the Oceanfront has decreased available parking and increased prices in private lots. The association said the cost and availability of parking is preventing them from enjoying their own beachfront community. Association founder George Kotarides said, “Well, this is a resident issue. Virginia Beach residents deserve to be able to come to their beach and be able to park for free. They already pay taxes for the garage. They should be able to come to the beach and enjoy their beach amenity without having to pay for parking.” To address these concerns, the Atlantic Avenue Association has proposed a three-year plan aimed at making parking more accessible. The plan includes a three-part solution: expanding public parking near the beach, offering free year-round parking for Virginia Beach residents and implementing year-round curbside parking along Atlantic Avenue. The association’s three-year plan outlines specific goals, as seen in their press release. By early 2025: Launch a free, year-round parking program for Virginia Beach residents. By mid-2026: Add 600 new public parking spaces near the Oceanfront between 17th and 21st streets. By mid-2027: Add another 600 public parking spaces in the same area. The association is also advocating to convert underused areas, such as the trolley lanes, into additional parking spaces. The Atlantic Avenue Association hopes these proposed changes will help create a more welcoming and accessible environment at the Oceanfront for residents and visitors alike. The group said it is now up to the city to make these changes a reality.