Bethesda's huge parking garage only 35% occupied
The Capital Crescent Garage, opened in Bethesda in January, is meant to alleviate some of the parking problems near Bethesda Row, has 960 spaces, but figures show that it is only being used to about a third of its capacity.
In order to make potential users aware of the garage, Montgomery County officials ran a free-parking trial period, at which time usage increased. However, once the free period was over, drivers left the new facility and continued to park at the overcrowded Garage 57, which historically has an occupancy rate of more than 90%.
Usage at this garage dropped by 10% when parking at the new garage was free, but climbed again when fees were instated. The new garage, which is a five-story structure, now has an occupancy rate of about 35%, despite the fact there is easy access to it from Woodmont Avenue and Bethesda Avenue.
County officials are trying to banish what they describe as the myth of scarce parking in Bethesda's downtown, but it seems the message is not getting through to drivers. Now that the condos and apartments above the new facility are completed, officials will try again to make people aware of their options.
County officials could work with a flyer printing company on a mailer for residents describing the facility, and including a map of the entrances and exits.
In order to make potential users aware of the garage, Montgomery County officials ran a free-parking trial period, at which time usage increased. However, once the free period was over, drivers left the new facility and continued to park at the overcrowded Garage 57, which historically has an occupancy rate of more than 90%.
Usage at this garage dropped by 10% when parking at the new garage was free, but climbed again when fees were instated. The new garage, which is a five-story structure, now has an occupancy rate of about 35%, despite the fact there is easy access to it from Woodmont Avenue and Bethesda Avenue.
County officials are trying to banish what they describe as the myth of scarce parking in Bethesda's downtown, but it seems the message is not getting through to drivers. Now that the condos and apartments above the new facility are completed, officials will try again to make people aware of their options.
County officials could work with a flyer printing company on a mailer for residents describing the facility, and including a map of the entrances and exits.