LOUISVILLE, Ky (WDRB) -- Thousands of people and dozens of food trucks descended on Waterfront Park in Louisville Sunday for the Louisville Food Truck and Craft Beer Festival. It's one of the first big events at the park since the Waterfront Development Corporation approved a measure that would require visitors to pay to park there.
More than 7,000 people attended what could be one of the last big events at Waterfront Park before those $3 parking charges go into effect.
In August, the Waterfront Development Corporation voted for the parking charges following a loss in state funding.
"I don't agree with the $3 parking whatsoever. I think they need to leave it alone the way it is," said Rick Hatfield, whose family owns the 502 Café and food truck. Hatfield is concerned the parking could take a bite out of his profits from future festivals.
"I honestly feel that it would hinder a little bit on people coming out. It's going to deter people coming out," said Hatfield.
Sunday's event was the first time the festival has made a stop in Louisville and its founder already plans on returning next year during the same weekend.
WDRB spoke to several people who enjoyed the festival but are hesitant to go next year once the parking charges begin.
"My taxes paid for this free park as well, so I probably wouldn't come down here to pay for parking, and then pay $10 to get in, then pay for food as well," said Louisville resident Tina Griffith.
Other attendees said they don't care about the parking cost and will still attend events no matter what.
"Anytime you can get out here and support something local I am going to go ahead and do that," said Mt. Washington resident Steve Goodin. "It's not going to hold me back from coming and having a good time."
There has not been a day set when parking charges could go into effect.
The county attorney has asked The Waterfront Development Corporation to put the plan on hold for now.
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