Nationals offering game day parking to all fans

WASHINGTON -- Big changes are coming for Nationals fans looking for a parking space at the new ballpark.

Beginning Wednesday, fans will be able to pay cash for a parking space near the stadium. The Nationals also will be offering valet parking. Previously, fans had to be a season ticket holder or buy game day parking permits over the Internet.

Team officials tell WTOP the spaces will cost $15 in Lot HH, and $20 in Lots W and T. Valet service will cost $50. To accommodate the service, team officials say the Nationals are converting the old Metro bus garage on M Street into a valet parking garage. Permits for Lots B and C will still be available for purchase over the internet.

The free parking and shuttle service from RFK will still be available for the rest of the season, but Nationals Vice President Gregory McCarthy tells WTOP the team will review the parking situation after the season, and decide whether to continue the shuttle service next year.

Some city officials are quietly complaining that the change will encourage more people to drive instead of using Metro. The Nationals say so few people have been driving that any increase in cars won't have a negative impact on traffic.

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