Finding affordable parking in close proximity to event venues is a common concern for attendees. For those visiting the Target Center, the cost of parking can significantly impact the overall expense of the experience. Securing less expensive parking options allows visitors to allocate more of their budget to the event itself, concessions, or other activities in the surrounding area. For example, utilizing public transportation, ride-sharing services, or exploring parking facilities further from the venue but still within reasonable walking distance can contribute to significant cost savings.
The availability of budget-friendly parking options can contribute to higher event attendance and foster a positive experience for visitors. Historically, parking costs in downtown areas have steadily increased, making affordable options highly desirable. This demand has driven innovation in parking solutions, including the development of pre-paid parking apps and websites that compare rates across various locations. The convenience and cost-effectiveness of these options play a crucial role in enhancing the accessibility of events held at venues like the Target Center.
This article will delve into various strategies and resources for locating reasonably priced parking near the Target Center. Topics will include a comparison of parking rates at nearby facilities, an overview of available public transportation options, and insights into utilizing ride-sharing services effectively. Additionally, the article will explore the potential benefits of pre-booking parking and offer tips for navigating parking regulations in the vicinity of the Target Center.
1. Distance
Distance plays a pivotal role in determining parking costs near the Target Center. Parking facilities located immediately adjacent to the venue often command premium prices due to their convenience. Conversely, parking structures situated a few blocks further away tend to offer lower rates. This inverse relationship between distance and price presents an opportunity for cost-conscious event attendees. Accepting a slightly longer walk can translate into substantial savings, particularly for those attending events with extended durations. For example, a parking garage a ten-minute walk from the Target Center might offer significantly reduced rates compared to a garage directly across the street.
The willingness to walk further opens up a wider range of parking options. Surface lots and smaller garages in nearby neighborhoods often offer competitive rates compared to larger, more centrally located structures. Utilizing online parking resources and mobile applications can facilitate the discovery of these less expensive options. These tools typically display parking locations on a map, allowing users to assess the distance from the Target Center and compare prices. This empowers event-goers to make informed decisions based on their individual tolerance for walking distance and their budgetary constraints.
Balancing convenience and cost is key when considering parking distance. While a shorter walk is undoubtedly preferable, the potential for significant cost savings often justifies a slightly longer walk, especially for budget-minded individuals. Leveraging online resources and pre-booking parking at these more distant locations further enhances the potential for savings. By strategically considering distance, attendees can minimize parking expenses without compromising their overall event experience.
2. Pre-booking
Pre-booking parking near the Target Center offers a strategic advantage in securing lower rates. This proactive approach allows individuals to reserve parking spaces in advance, often at discounted prices compared to drive-up rates. Parking facilities frequently offer lower rates for pre-booked spots to guarantee occupancy and manage inventory effectively. This benefits both the parking provider and the consumer. The provider secures revenue, while the consumer benefits from cost savings and the assurance of a parking space, particularly crucial during popular events.
Several real-world examples illustrate the cost-effectiveness of pre-booking. Parking apps and websites often feature discounted rates for users who reserve parking in advance. These platforms typically partner with parking facilities to offer exclusive deals and promotions to their users. For instance, a user might pre-book parking for an event at the Target Center through a parking app and secure a rate 20% lower than the drive-up rate at the same facility. This proactive approach can translate to significant savings, especially for frequent event attendees. Furthermore, pre-booking eliminates the uncertainty of finding parking upon arrival, particularly relevant for events with high attendance.
Pre-booking represents a critical component of a comprehensive cost-saving strategy for parking near the Target Center. By leveraging online resources and planning ahead, individuals can significantly reduce parking expenses. This practice not only offers financial benefits but also contributes to a smoother and less stressful event experience. The ability to secure a guaranteed parking space in advance eliminates the need to circle the venue searching for parking, allowing attendees to focus on enjoying the event itself. Pre-booking empowers consumers with greater control over their parking expenses and contributes to a more positive overall experience.
3. Public Transit
Public transportation presents a viable alternative to traditional parking for those attending events at the Target Center, offering significant potential for cost savings. Utilizing public transit eliminates parking fees altogether and contributes to reducing traffic congestion around the venue. This option is particularly attractive for budget-conscious individuals and those seeking to minimize their environmental impact.
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Accessibility
The Target Center is readily accessible via various public transit options, including light rail and bus routes. Multiple stations and stops are located within walking distance of the venue, facilitating convenient access for attendees. This extensive network ensures that individuals from various parts of the city can reach the Target Center without relying on personal vehicles. Real-world examples include utilizing the METRO Blue or Green Line light rail, with stops conveniently located near the venue. This accessibility makes public transit a practical and cost-effective alternative to driving and parking.
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Cost-Effectiveness
Compared to the cost of parking, public transit fares are generally significantly lower. A single round-trip light rail or bus fare is substantially less expensive than parking fees at garages or lots near the Target Center. This cost difference can represent considerable savings, especially for individuals attending multiple events throughout the year. The affordability of public transit makes it an attractive option for those seeking to minimize their overall event expenses.
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Reduced Traffic Congestion
Opting for public transit contributes to alleviating traffic congestion around the Target Center, particularly during peak event times. Reduced traffic volume translates to faster travel times for those utilizing public transit and minimizes the environmental impact of vehicle emissions. By choosing public transport, individuals contribute to a more sustainable and efficient traffic flow in the downtown area. This benefit extends beyond individual cost savings and positively impacts the overall urban environment.
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Route Planning Resources
Numerous online resources and mobile applications facilitate route planning for public transit to the Target Center. These tools provide real-time information on schedules, routes, and estimated travel times, empowering individuals to plan their journeys effectively. Apps like Google Maps and transit agency websites offer detailed information on public transit options, making it easier for attendees to navigate the city and arrive at the venue on time. These resources streamline the process of using public transportation and enhance its overall convenience.
By leveraging the accessibility, cost-effectiveness, and route planning resources associated with public transit, attendees can significantly reduce event-related expenses and contribute to a more sustainable urban environment. Choosing public transportation offers a compelling alternative to traditional parking, allowing individuals to bypass parking fees entirely and enjoy a convenient and environmentally conscious mode of transportation to the Target Center. This approach not only benefits individual budgets but also contributes to a more efficient and sustainable transportation system for the city as a whole.
4. Ride-sharing
Ride-sharing services offer a compelling alternative to traditional parking for events at the Target Center, presenting a viable strategy for cost reduction and convenience. By sharing rides, individuals can significantly decrease transportation expenses compared to parking fees, particularly when attending events in groups. This approach also contributes to reducing traffic congestion and minimizing the environmental impact associated with individual vehicle use. Exploring the various facets of ride-sharing reveals its potential as a cost-effective and environmentally conscious transportation solution.
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Cost-Sharing
The core principle of ride-sharing involves distributing the cost of the trip among multiple passengers. This shared expense model significantly reduces the financial burden on each individual compared to paying for parking individually. For example, a group of four attending an event can split the cost of a ride-sharing service, resulting in a per-person expense considerably lower than the cost of parking in a downtown garage. This cost-sharing model makes ride-sharing an attractive option for budget-conscious event-goers.
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Reduced Traffic Congestion
Utilizing ride-sharing services contributes to mitigating traffic congestion around the Target Center, especially during peak event times. By consolidating multiple individuals into fewer vehicles, ride-sharing reduces the overall volume of traffic converging on the venue. This contributes to smoother traffic flow and potentially faster travel times compared to navigating congested streets and searching for parking. The reduced traffic volume also benefits the broader urban environment by minimizing vehicle emissions.
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Convenience and Flexibility
Ride-sharing services offer a high degree of convenience and flexibility, allowing users to request rides on demand through mobile applications. This eliminates the need to pre-book parking or navigate complex parking structures. Ride-sharing apps provide real-time tracking of the approaching vehicle and estimated arrival times, empowering users with greater control over their transportation logistics. The convenience factor is particularly appealing for those attending events from locations not easily accessible by public transportation.
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Designated Drop-off/Pick-up Zones
Many venues, including the Target Center, have designated drop-off and pick-up zones for ride-sharing services. These designated areas streamline the arrival and departure process, minimizing congestion and enhancing safety for both passengers and pedestrians. These designated zones are typically located in close proximity to the venue entrance, offering a level of convenience comparable to parking in adjacent garages, but without the associated parking fees.
By leveraging the cost-sharing model, contributing to reduced traffic congestion, offering convenience and flexibility, and utilizing designated drop-off/pick-up zones, ride-sharing presents a compelling alternative to traditional parking near the Target Center. This approach allows attendees to significantly reduce transportation expenses while enjoying a convenient and environmentally conscious mode of transportation. Ride-sharing offers a practical and sustainable solution for navigating the challenges of event parking in urban environments.
5. Off-peak Hours
Leveraging off-peak hours presents a strategic opportunity to secure more affordable parking near the Target Center. Parking rates often fluctuate based on demand, with peak periods, such as weekday business hours and event times, commanding higher prices. Conversely, off-peak hours, typically evenings, weekends, and non-event days, often correlate with lower parking rates. This dynamic presents a cost-saving opportunity for individuals with flexible schedules or those attending events outside peak times. For example, attending a weekday afternoon event might offer lower parking rates compared to an evening event coinciding with rush hour traffic and higher parking demand.
Understanding the correlation between parking rates and demand fluctuations empowers consumers to make informed decisions. Parking facilities often publish rate structures online or display them prominently on-site, enabling consumers to compare prices and strategize accordingly. Choosing to park during off-peak times, even if it necessitates arriving earlier or departing later, can translate into significant savings. This cost-conscious approach is particularly relevant for frequent event attendees or those seeking to minimize expenses. Furthermore, parking during less congested periods contributes to a smoother and less stressful parking experience, avoiding the challenges of navigating crowded garages and competing for limited spaces during peak times.
Strategic use of off-peak hours offers a practical and effective method for securing affordable parking near the Target Center. By aligning parking times with periods of lower demand, individuals can significantly reduce parking expenses without compromising convenience. This approach requires flexibility and planning but offers a tangible financial benefit, particularly in urban environments where parking costs can be substantial. Integrating this strategy into broader cost-saving measures, such as utilizing public transport or ride-sharing during peak hours, further enhances the potential for minimizing event-related expenses.
6. Neighborhood Ramps
Neighborhood parking ramps offer a strategic advantage in the pursuit of affordable parking near the Target Center. These facilities, often situated in residential or mixed-use areas surrounding the venue, frequently offer lower rates compared to parking structures immediately adjacent to the Target Center. This price discrepancy stems from lower land values and reduced demand compared to prime downtown locations. Exploring neighborhood ramps expands the range of parking options available to event-goers, allowing for a cost-conscious approach to parking without significant compromises in terms of distance.
Several factors contribute to the cost-effectiveness of neighborhood ramps. Operating costs in these areas tend to be lower, allowing operators to offer more competitive rates. Additionally, the slightly increased distance from the venue often deters individuals seeking the utmost convenience, resulting in lower occupancy rates and incentivizing operators to maintain attractive pricing. Real-world examples include smaller parking garages or surface lots in residential areas within a 10-15 minute walk of the Target Center. These facilities frequently offer rates significantly lower than those of larger, more centrally located garages. Utilizing online parking resources and mobile applications can facilitate the identification and comparison of rates at various neighborhood ramps, empowering consumers to make informed decisions based on price, distance, and availability.
Integrating neighborhood ramps into a comprehensive parking strategy enhances the potential for significant cost savings. Balancing the trade-off between walking distance and price allows event-goers to optimize their parking expenses. While a longer walk might be required, the financial benefits can be substantial, particularly for those attending frequent events or seeking to maximize their budget. Leveraging neighborhood ramps represents a practical and effective approach to mitigating parking costs in urban environments, contributing to a more affordable and enjoyable event experience.
7. Event-Specific Deals
Event-specific parking deals represent a significant opportunity for securing discounted parking near the Target Center. These promotions, often offered in conjunction with specific events or through partnerships between parking providers and event organizers, can significantly reduce parking expenses. Recognizing and capitalizing on these deals requires proactive research and planning but can yield substantial savings for event attendees.
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Pre-purchase Discounts
Many event organizers and parking providers offer discounted parking rates for pre-purchasing parking online. These advance purchase deals often provide significant savings compared to drive-up rates, incentivizing attendees to plan ahead and secure their parking in advance. For instance, a concert at the Target Center might offer a pre-purchase parking discount through a designated website or mobile app, allowing attendees to secure a lower rate by purchasing their parking spot before the event date.
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Partnered Promotions
Partnerships between event organizers and local businesses can create opportunities for discounted parking. Restaurants, hotels, or retail establishments near the Target Center might offer parking validation or discounted rates for event attendees. For example, a restaurant might offer validated parking at a nearby garage for patrons dining before or after an event, effectively reducing or eliminating parking costs. These partnerships benefit both the businesses and event attendees, driving traffic to local establishments while providing cost savings for event-goers.
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Special Event Rates
Certain events might offer special parking rates negotiated by event organizers. These negotiated rates can be lower than standard parking rates and are often communicated through event websites or ticketing platforms. For instance, a convention held at the Target Center might negotiate a discounted rate with nearby parking facilities specifically for convention attendees, providing a cost-effective parking option for a large group of individuals.
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Loyalty Programs
Some parking providers offer loyalty programs that reward frequent parkers with discounts or other incentives. These programs can provide ongoing cost savings for individuals who regularly attend events at the Target Center. Accumulating points or utilizing membership benefits through a parking loyalty program can lead to discounted rates or free parking after a certain number of visits, offering a long-term cost-saving strategy for frequent event attendees.
By actively seeking out and utilizing event-specific parking deals, attendees can significantly reduce their parking expenses near the Target Center. This proactive approach involves researching available deals through event websites, parking provider platforms, and local business partnerships. Integrating this strategy into a comprehensive cost-saving plan, encompassing considerations of distance, timing, and alternative transportation options, further enhances the potential for minimizing event-related expenses and maximizing the overall event experience.
8. Parking Apps
Parking apps play a crucial role in locating and securing cheap parking near the Target Center. These applications aggregate real-time data from various parking providers, enabling users to compare prices, reserve parking spaces, and navigate to chosen facilities efficiently. Leveraging these digital tools empowers event attendees to make informed decisions and optimize parking expenses, contributing to a more cost-effective and convenient event experience.
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Real-time Price Comparison
Parking apps offer a comprehensive overview of parking rates at different facilities near the Target Center. This real-time price comparison feature allows users to quickly identify the most affordable options based on their desired location and parking duration. Users can filter search results by price, distance, and availability, streamlining the process of finding the most cost-effective parking solution. For example, a user can compare the hourly rates of several parking garages within a specific radius of the Target Center and choose the most budget-friendly option.
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Pre-booking and Reservations
Many parking apps facilitate pre-booking and reservation of parking spaces. This feature allows users to secure parking in advance, often at discounted rates compared to drive-up prices. Pre-booking eliminates the uncertainty of finding parking upon arrival, particularly crucial during popular events. Users can reserve a specific parking space for a designated time period, ensuring a guaranteed spot upon arrival at the venue. This feature not only offers cost savings but also reduces stress and saves time by eliminating the need to search for parking upon arrival.
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Navigation and Directions
Parking apps typically integrate navigation and direction features, guiding users directly to their chosen parking facility. This integrated functionality simplifies the arrival process, eliminating the need to consult separate navigation apps or printed directions. Users can initiate navigation directly from the parking app, receiving turn-by-turn directions to the entrance of the chosen parking garage. This seamless integration enhances convenience and minimizes the risk of confusion or delays in reaching the designated parking location.
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Digital Payment and Receipts
Parking apps typically facilitate digital payment for parking, eliminating the need for cash or physical payment methods. Users can securely store payment information within the app and process payments seamlessly upon arrival and departure. This feature enhances convenience and eliminates the need to interact with parking attendants or payment kiosks. The app also typically generates digital receipts, providing a convenient record of parking transactions for expense tracking and reimbursement purposes.
By leveraging the features of parking apps, individuals seeking cheap parking near the Target Center gain access to a powerful suite of tools for comparing prices, reserving spaces, navigating to facilities, and managing payments efficiently. This integrated approach streamlines the parking process, minimizes expenses, and contributes to a more seamless and enjoyable event experience. The combination of real-time information, pre-booking capabilities, and integrated navigation makes parking apps an invaluable resource for those seeking affordable and convenient parking solutions in urban environments.
9. Walking Time
Walking time represents a critical factor in the equation of securing cheap parking near the Target Center. A direct correlation exists between proximity to the venue and parking costs. Parking facilities immediately adjacent to the Target Center command premium prices due to their convenience, while those further away typically offer lower rates. This inverse relationship presents a trade-off: accepting a longer walk often translates into substantial cost savings. This principle underpins the strategy of utilizing parking facilities located further from the venue but still within a reasonable walking distance.
Real-world scenarios illustrate this connection. Consider two parking garages: one directly across the street from the Target Center and another a ten-minute walk away. The closer garage might charge $40 for event parking, while the further garage might charge $20. This $20 price difference reflects the value placed on convenience. For budget-conscious individuals, the ten-minute walk represents a worthwhile trade-off for halving the parking expense. This principle applies across various event venues and urban environments, where parking costs often escalate closer to the point of interest. Choosing to walk farther unlocks access to a wider range of parking options, often including smaller surface lots or garages in surrounding neighborhoods with significantly lower rates than those immediately adjacent to the venue.
Integrating walking time into a comprehensive parking strategy empowers consumers to optimize costs. Evaluating the balance between convenience and cost becomes crucial. Utilizing online resources and mobile parking apps, which display parking locations on a map with corresponding prices, enables informed decision-making. These tools allow users to visualize the distance from the Target Center to various parking facilities and compare their respective rates. This informed approach facilitates a cost-effective parking strategy aligned with individual budgetary constraints and tolerance for walking distance. Accepting a longer walk, particularly for events of extended duration, can lead to substantial savings, contributing to a more affordable and enjoyable event experience. Understanding the relationship between walking time and parking costs empowers consumers to make strategic decisions that maximize value and minimize expense.
Frequently Asked Questions about Affordable Parking Near Target Center
This FAQ section addresses common inquiries regarding cost-effective parking options in proximity to the Target Center, aiming to provide clear and concise information for event attendees.
Question 1: How far in advance should one pre-book parking for events at the Target Center?
Pre-booking parking is generally recommended as soon as event tickets are purchased. This proactive approach secures a guaranteed space and often locks in lower rates, particularly for popular events. While some availability might exist closer to the event date, pre-booking minimizes the risk of limited choices or inflated prices.
Question 2: Are there free parking options near the Target Center?
Free parking options directly adjacent to the Target Center are extremely limited. Street parking in the vicinity is typically metered and subject to time restrictions. Exploring street parking further from the venue might yield free options, but requires consideration of walking distance and potential time limitations.
Question 3: What is the average cost of parking near the Target Center?
Parking costs fluctuate based on factors such as event popularity, day of the week, and proximity to the venue. Rates can range from $10 to $50 or more. Utilizing parking apps and pre-booking strategies can help mitigate these costs.
Question 4: How can one find real-time parking availability and pricing near the Target Center?
Real-time parking information can be accessed through various parking apps available on mobile devices. These apps aggregate data from multiple parking providers, displaying current availability and pricing, allowing users to compare options and make informed decisions.
Question 5: Are there discounts available for parking near the Target Center?
Discounts are often available through pre-booking, event-specific promotions, or partnerships with local businesses. Checking event websites, parking provider platforms, and local business offers can reveal potential cost savings.
Question 6: What are the alternatives to paid parking near the Target Center?
Alternatives include utilizing public transportation, ride-sharing services, or exploring park-and-ride options. These alternatives offer potential cost savings and contribute to reduced traffic congestion around the venue.
Careful planning and consideration of available resources are essential for securing affordable and convenient parking near the Target Center. Pre-booking, utilizing parking apps, and exploring alternative transportation options represent key strategies for minimizing costs.
The next section will explore specific parking locations and provide a detailed comparison of their rates and proximity to the Target Center.
Tips for Securing Cheap Parking Near Target Center
Securing affordable parking near the Target Center requires a strategic approach. The following tips provide practical guidance for minimizing parking expenses while attending events at the venue.
Tip 1: Utilize Parking Apps
Parking apps offer real-time price comparisons, pre-booking options, and navigation assistance. Leveraging these tools allows comparison of rates across various parking facilities and identification of the most cost-effective options. Pre-booking through these apps often unlocks discounted rates compared to drive-up prices.
Tip 2: Explore Neighborhood Ramps
Parking garages situated in neighborhoods surrounding the Target Center frequently offer lower rates compared to those immediately adjacent to the venue. Accepting a slightly longer walk can yield substantial savings. Online resources and parking apps can pinpoint these neighborhood facilities and compare their rates.
Tip 3: Consider Off-Peak Hours
Parking rates often fluctuate based on demand. Attending events scheduled during off-peak hours, such as weekday afternoons or weekends, might offer lower parking rates compared to peak evening or weekday event times.
Tip 4: Leverage Public Transportation
Public transit, including light rail and bus routes, provides convenient access to the Target Center. Utilizing public transportation eliminates parking expenses altogether and contributes to reducing traffic congestion around the venue. Route planning apps and transit websites provide schedules and real-time information.
Tip 5: Explore Ride-Sharing Options
Ride-sharing services offer a cost-effective alternative, particularly for groups attending events. Sharing the cost of a ride significantly reduces individual expenses compared to parking fees. Designated drop-off/pick-up zones near the Target Center streamline the arrival and departure process.
Tip 6: Seek Event-Specific Deals
Event organizers or local businesses sometimes offer parking discounts or validation for specific events. Checking event websites, parking provider platforms, and local business offers can reveal potential cost savings.
Tip 7: Evaluate Pre-booking Options
Pre-booking parking secures a guaranteed space and often locks in lower rates compared to drive-up prices. Pre-booking is particularly advantageous for popular events where parking availability might be limited.
Tip 8: Factor in Walking Time
Accepting a longer walk to the venue from a more distant parking facility often translates to lower parking fees. Balancing the trade-off between walking distance and cost represents a key element of a cost-effective parking strategy.
Strategic planning and utilization of available resources significantly contribute to securing affordable parking. Combining these tips with proactive research empowers event attendees to minimize expenses and maximize the overall event experience.
The following conclusion summarizes key takeaways and reinforces the importance of strategic parking planning for attending events at the Target Center.
Conclusion
Securing cost-effective parking near the Target Center requires a multifaceted approach encompassing pre-planning, resource utilization, and strategic decision-making. This article explored various strategies, including leveraging parking apps, exploring neighborhood ramps, considering off-peak hours, utilizing public transportation, and capitalizing on event-specific deals. The analysis highlighted the inverse relationship between proximity to the venue and parking costs, emphasizing the potential savings associated with accepting a longer walk. Furthermore, the exploration of pre-booking, ride-sharing, and the use of online resources underscored their importance in minimizing expenses and ensuring a smooth parking experience. The availability of affordable parking options significantly impacts event accessibility and overall attendee experience.
Strategic planning regarding parking contributes to a more cost-effective and enjoyable event experience. Attendees are encouraged to evaluate individual transportation needs, budgetary constraints, and tolerance for walking distance to determine the most suitable parking strategy. Proactive research and utilization of available resources empower event-goers to navigate the complexities of urban parking and minimize expenses, ensuring that cost considerations do not detract from the overall enjoyment of events at the Target Center. Effective parking strategies contribute to a positive event experience, enhancing accessibility and allowing attendees to focus on the event itself rather than the logistical challenges of parking.
