New Policy Aimed at Alleviating “Driving Shame”
In response to driver’s demand for autonomy and a desire to avoid shaming by local residents, the City of Berkeley Parking Department and BART have teamed up to offer Bitcoin payments options at stations, metered spots and city garages. The move to cryptocurrency comes as residents express an increasing desire to not be “outed” for driving.
One resident, who spoke to the The Bunion on the condition her name would remain anonymous because of a pending application to be a member of the Climate Commission, stated, “You might be out in your all electric Leaf but there is still the criticism your are endangering pedestrians and cyclists.”
A resident living in a high walking score neighborhood reported, “I was ostracized by my neighbors when I left a parking proof of payment ticket on my dashboard. The stink eye only stopped after multiple texts to our block list explaining the purpose of my trip was to take my 90 year old mother for check up.”
While phone-based payment applications offer some measure of relief, they still create an “electronic payment trail.” The Climate Commission applicant cited the extensive financial disclosure requirements necessary to become a commission member. “They already require a mountain of disclosures under penalty of perjury, and vehicle utilization seem to be a ripe target these days. Cryptocurrency represents an effective way to cover your tracks.” If you would like to participate in the new program, contact the Parking Services Department.
