Palo Alto, CA -- During December 2003 and January 2004, Downtown Palo Alto parking garages will extend existing 2 hour parking to 3 hours. Visitors to Palo Alto can spend an extra hour in the color zone when parking in the High/Alma South garage (R garage), the Bryant/Lytton garage (S/L garage), the Ramona/University garage (B garage).

The Webster/Cowper garage (W/C garage) and Civic Center garage (CC garage) already provide 3 hour parking.

The City of Palo Alto Transportation Division, Public Works Department and Police Department are working together to ensure a smooth transition for this temporary change. Merchants and local businesses are encouraged to notify customers of the extended hours.

Temporary banners and signs will be posted at entrances and within the garages to indicate the temporary change from 2 hour parking to 3 hour parking. Surface parking lots and on-street spaces will remain 2 hour parking zones. All Color Zone regulations apply throughout the two-month period. Garages are scheduled to convert back to 2-hour parking on February 1, 2004.

For parking requirements longer than 3 hours, shoppers can purchase a one-day permit for $15. One-day permits can be purchased at Palo Alto Civic Center Revenue Collections, first floor of 250 Hamilton Avenue. Long-term permits are also available for employers and employees who work downtown. These permits are available on a quarterly and annual basis. For information on permit purchases, contact Revenue Collections at 650-329-2317.

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