The PPA Is Ending Free Parking on Wednesdays, First Fridays

A PPA kiosk in Center City | Photo: Dan McQuade

The era of free parking in Center City is coming to an end.

Currently, street parking in Center City is free after 5 p.m. on Wednesday nights and on the first Friday of every month. As first reported by Philly.com, the PPA recently announced that it’s ending the promotion.

“The conclusion of these promotions is intended to increase parking opportunities for those shopping and dining in the city, and in light of the increased flexibility afforded by the meterUP app,” the PPA wrote on its blog. “In addition, the PPA has increased time limits in the evening on most Center City blocks allowing enough time for people participating in night time activities without being rushed to get back to move their car.”

The last day for free Wednesday parking is September 28th; enforcement begins on October 5th. First Friday enforcement begins on October 7th. The PPA says meterUP, which allows drivers to pay for parking via an app on their phone, has been downloaded more than 51,000 times since September.

The PPA directs drivers to meterUP.xyz for more information about the app.