LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — Some Louisville shoppers are adjusting to a new parking option at Mall St. Matthews that now comes with a price tag.
The mall introduced 96 preferred paid parking spaces Monday near the food court entrance. Mall leaders said the spaces make up just 96 of the property's roughly 3,800 parking spots, meaning about 98% of parking remains free.
The preferred spots cost $2.45 for the first hour and $2 for each additional hour. The parking is sourced from a by a third-party company, 12 Oaks Parking Services, and a portion of the proceeds benefits Kosair for Kids.
"We're coming in to spend money. What's the point of paying for parking?" Kenya Chambers said. "
In a statement, the mall's senior manager, Paige Moreau, said the preferred parking is an "optional amenity" for shoppers who want the convenience of parking closer to the food court entrance.
But more than a dozen shoppers said Wednesday they wouldn't pay to park closer to the entrance. While some drivers used the paid spaces, many others stopped to read the signs before choosing to park elsewhere.
"A public place, you don't really want to have to pay to park at places like this," said Makenna Wilson, another shopper.
It is not clear how permanent the paid parking is, or if it will be to the mall's other lots — another concern both Wilson and Chambers have.
In response, Moreau said the mall will "continuously evaluate" its amenities and "ensure they meet the needs of our guests."
"We understand that any change can generate questions and appreciate the feedback we've received," Moreau said.
For now, shoppers are adjusting to their new reality.
"I feel like when you come in here, you're kind of coming here to spend money," Wilson said. "So I figured that would be enough."
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