GRUENE, Texas – The recent switch from free to paid parking at Gruene River Grill has stirred controversy among residents in the New Braunfels area.
The change, intended to manage the increasing number of visitors and alleviate parking congestion, has been met with mixed reactions.
Some residents expressed frustration, while others understood the necessity but hoped for better solutions.
“It’s pretty much a metropolis now of its northern San Antonio,” one resident said, highlighting the area’s growth.
Another resident suggested, “A concession should have been made for locals.”
The restaurant has implemented a system where diners pay for parking but receive a validation code for a refund after their meal.
The general manager of Gruene River Grill explained, “This was our last kind of resort to see if we can solve the problem,” emphasizing that the changes aim to benefit both customers and the business.
As parking scarcity continues in Gruene and New Braunfels, residents are calling for a compromise. One suggestion was to charge for premium parking during the busy summer months and offer free parking in the fall and winter.
Gruene River Grill plans to monitor feedback before deciding whether to make the “pay to park” system permanent.