It’s going to cost more to park in Grand Rapids, but it may cost less to get around.
Across-the-board parking fee increases and expanded, free transit services kicked off Thursday across areas of downtown Grand Rapids.
Increases include short and long-term parking at city-owned lots and meters, as well as special event parking opportunities. Monthly passes jumped at all city lots.
The lowest monthly rates are $48 and include DASH West areas.
Rates up-to double at some downtown garages, with the highest monthly rates including DeVos Place and the Pearl Ionia garage.
A new initiative – the downtown 'Park Once' district – also launched Thursday.
Officials say that’s paired with the expanded, free DASH and Silver Line bus service to cover more of the area – so once you’re parked, you can use the shuttles to get around.
DASH operation hours have been extended, with buses running about every eight minutes on weekdays from 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.
More information can be found at GRParkingChanges.org.