Friday morning brought a big change to the parking situation in downtown Los Angeles‘ Arts District. At least, that was the plan until vandals intervened.
Flyers were placed on cars a few days ago announcing the arrival of paid parking, which “is being implemented to increase the availability of parking spaces,” the Los Angeles Department of Transportation said.
More than 250 spots between 1st Street and 4th Street from Alameda Street to Santa Fe Avenue were expected to become paid spaces, LADOT said on Facebook.
Five kiosks have been added to the area to accept payment, LAist reports, though LADOT said later Friday that the rollout wasn’t without hiccups.
“Due to vandalism of the five recently installed parking kiosks, LADOT is delaying the implementation of paid parking and parking meter enforcement in the Arts District until repairs are completed,” a spokesperson said. “The new parking regulations were requested by Arts District businesses, residents, and the City Council office. They were developed by LADOT to increase parking availability for residents and visitors alike, and improve access to local businesses. LADOT is working with LAPD to identify individuals responsible for the damage and prevent further vandalism.”
Once the paid parking is implemented, drivers can “enjoy flexible, contactless payment options,” LADOT said.
“Choose from pay by text or QR code, and explore the convenience of the Park Smarter or ParkMobile app,” officials added. “Drivers will also have the option to pay with cash or credit card at the nearest pay station.”
LADOT did not provide a date or time when the paid parking will go into effect.