Parking in downtown Ocean City could cost an additional 50 cents per hour this summer under a proposal being introduced at Monday's town council meeting.

The ordinance would increase parking rates for all spaces that are served by pay stations, including street parking and municipal lots, from $1 to $1.50 per hour.

From April 1 to May 24, the higher fees would be in effect on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. (Also on Thursday before events like Springfest and Cruizin OC.)

From May 25 to Sept. 3, the $1.50 rate would be charged daily, 7 a.m. to midnight on the street and 24 hours in parking lots.

Officials point out that the town has not increased parking fees in awhile. They said the extra funds raised would be used for road maintenance and infrastructure upgrades.

If the proposal passes its first reading tonight, a final vote will be held on Feb. 20.