Heather Curtis
WMAL.com
WASHINGTON (WMAL) – The Nats aren’t the only ones with a challenge ahead of them for Monday’s third Nation League Championship Series game. Fans will struggle to find parking. Private lots near Nats Park are pricey, and street parking is rare with short time limits.
AAA Mid-Atlantic’s John Townsend said each year there are fewer street spots in the ballpark district because more of those spaces have been designated as residential spots that you need a permit to use.
Many of the spots that are open to anyone have two hour time limits, so parking there’s risky. Parking for two hours can cost as much as $12 according to Townsend. It may be tempting to stay past the two hour limit or park illegally, but that could earn you a $100 ticket. That’s compared to a $35 ticket in the same area on a day when there isn’t a game. Townsend said that $100 ticket is the most expensive parking ticket in the city.
“You can park and block an emergency lane, and the fine is $50. You can park in front of a fire department, and the fine is $50, but if you park in the ballpark district, the fine is $100,” Townsend said.
Even though Monday’s a holiday, parking restrictions still apply around the ballpark.
Townsend said there are more tickets given out on game day because that’s when parking enforcement people are out patrolling in force.
“People love being in their cars, and they’re paying the penalty. And for some people, when you’re in the playoffs, what’s a $100 fine? You got to watch the game,” Townsend said.
Those looking to avoid the hassle finding a spot or the risk of getting a $100 ticket can take Metro. The transit agency will run trains from Navy Yard-Ballpark for twenty minutes after the game. That will be the only station where riders can enter the system. All other stations will be exit only.
First pitch for Monday’s game is at 7:38. Tuesday’s home game is at 8:05. If there is a game 5 that will be played at home Wednesday at 4:08.
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