Electronic meters that allow the use of a pre-paid key which is inserted into the meter in place of coins. The Cash Key removes the need to carry bulky loose change and makes the meter more convenient for long-term parking
How does the Cash Key work?
Cash Keys are pre-programmed in increments of $10. When you fully insert the Cash Key in the meter, the mechanism will display the remaining amount rounded off to the nearest dollar.
Since the meter cannot display decimal points, it rounds to the nearest dollar.
Each time the key is inserted $.25 is deducted from the key and time is put on the meter, so be careful to push only the amount you want. Time is added in increments: Center city – 10 minutes per quarter, Other areas 15 minutes per quarter. To register additional time on the meter, keep re-inserting the Cash Key until the desired amount of time is displayed on the meter.The Cash Key does not need to be completely removed before reinsertion so be careful to avoid unintentional reinsertions. When the amount of time desired has been registered, remove the Cash Key and take it with you. Again, please be careful since the meter will not register more than the posted time limit but will continue to deduct $.25 from your Cash Key each time it is inserted. If the key is left inserted for more than five seconds, the meter will go into an out of order mode until the Cash Key is removed. This feature is intended to alert you if you have inadvertently left the Cash Key in the meter.
What do the meters cost?
Parking Costs: Center City – 10 minutes per quarter, Other areas – 15 minutes per quarter.
Meter Limits: Harrisburg meters have varying time limits – 2 hrs, 4 hrs or all day. You cannot exceed these limits with the Cash Key. Please check the maximum time posted on the meter.
Please remember, whether using the Cash Key or coins, that these meters only register time up to the posted time limit. However, they will continue to accept change or Cash Key insertions past this time.
What happens when the Cash Key runs out?
When you purchase a Cash Key, you are charged a deposit of $15.00 plus the amount programmed in $10.00 increments. When the amount programmed on the Cash Key is exhausted, you may bring the key to the Harrisburg Parking Authority and purchase more time or you may return the key and receive your $15.00 deposit fee. For more information about the Cash Key System, or parking in general, call the Harrisburg Parking Authority 717-255-3099.
Can I use quarters and the Cash Key together?
Yes. The Cash Key Meters will accept either one and even distinguish between foreign coins and slugs. In fact, since the Cash Key meters will only show the whole dollar amount left on your key, you may wish to have a few quarters for those times when your key runs out before you reach the needed time on your meter.
What if I lose the Cash Key?
Without the Cash Key, we have no way of knowing how much money was left on the programmed key, or whether it was found and used by another party. Therefore, no refunds can be issued for amounts remaining on lost keys, nor is your $15 deposit refundable. The Cash Key is the equivalent of money and replaces the many quarters otherwise needed for meters. The key is a convenient substitute which should be carried on a key ring or stored in your vehicle.
Is the Cash Key durable?
Cash Keys are extremely durable and are not affected by exposure to rain, snow, etc. They are also not affected by magnetic or x-ray exposures (airport terminals, etc.).
If my Cash Key is lost or damaged, am I entitled to a refund?
As is the case with a lost key or damaged key, no refund will be issued.
How do I get a Meter Key?
Keys may be purchased at:
Harrisburg Parking Authority
Suite 317, 3rd Floor
123 Walnut St
Harrisburg, Pa 17108-1142
Monday through Friday
8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Please remember, the purchase of a Cash Key does not guarantee a space since the Cash Key meters also accept coins. Parking at metered spaces occurs on a first come, first served basis. There is a $15.00 refundable deposit.
