parking_meters.jpgThe SFMTA is set to launch a text alert and pay-by-phone service for parking meters, potentially saving drivers from costly tickets.

As the Chron reports, the SFMTA, which blames some of its massive revenue shortfall on the fact that they’re writing fewer tickets, says users of the program will get a text when their parking’s set to expire, and can then pay for more meter time with their phone.

The voluntary service will start in the Castro district, covering curbside meters on Castro St. between 19th and Market, and on 18th St. between Diamond and Hartford.

Users of the program will pay a 45-cent “convenience” fee for transactions, which might seem like chump change compared to a $55 Castro parking ticket.

If the program proves successful, the pay-by-phone service will be expanded across the city.


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the author

Always in motion. April Siese writes about music, takes photos at shows, and even helps put them on behind the scenes as a stagehand. She's written everything from hard news to beauty features, as well as fiction and poetry. She most definitely likes pie.

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