New: Pay By License Plate for Metered Parking
Maria Torres · Union County Life
Cranford has implemented a new parking payment system for metered parking in Downtown Cranford. The new system changes how residents and visitors pay for parking. Parking is no longer based on individual parking space numbers. Instead, drivers pay for parking by entering their vehicle's license plate number.
Union County Life covers Cranford municipal services and civic notices across all 21 Union County municipalities.
Three Payment Methods
The new system offers three convenient payment options for downtown parking:
Text Payment: Drivers can text their zone number, which is located on parking signs, to 912-912-6729. This method works from any mobile phone.
Mobile App: Drivers can download the mPay2Park app on either the Apple App Store or Google Play. The app allows quick, on-the-go payment management.
Pay Stations: Traditional parking pay stations remain available throughout Downtown Cranford. These stations accept cash, coin, or credit card.
How It Works
Instead of identifying parking by individual space numbers, the new system uses zone-based payment. Drivers identify their zone number from signs in the parking area, then select their preferred payment method. Payment is matched to the vehicle's license plate number, eliminating the need to track specific parking space numbers.
Announcement and Implementation
The Borough announced the new system on August 5, 2026. The system is now active for all metered parking in Downtown Cranford.
For Downtown Visitors
Residents and visitors should note the three payment options and choose the method most convenient for their needs. All three methods are equally valid for metered parking in Downtown Cranford.
Find more Cranford municipal services and civic information on Union County Life.
FAQ
Q: How do I pay for parking in Downtown Cranford?
A: Cranford has three payment methods. Text your zone number to 912-912-6729, download the mPay2Park app, or use parking pay stations that accept cash, coin, or credit card.
Q: What is the zone number?
A: Zone numbers are located on parking signs in each parking area. Look for the sign to identify your zone before paying.
Q: Do I still need to identify my specific parking space?
A: No. The new system uses zone-based payment instead of individual space numbers. Just identify your zone and pay for parking using one of the three methods.
Q: Which payment method should I use?
A: All three methods are equally valid. Choose the one most convenient for you: text, app, or pay station.
Q: How do I download the mPay2Park app?
A: Search for "mPay2Park" on the Apple App Store or Google Play, then download and install the app on your mobile device.
Q: What payment methods do the parking pay stations accept?
A: Parking pay stations accept cash, coin, or credit card.
Q: When was the new parking system implemented?
A: The new system was implemented and announced on August 5, 2026, and is now active in Downtown Cranford.
Q: Does this system apply to all parking in Cranford?
A: The system applies to metered parking in Downtown Cranford specifically.
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