Several car windshields had parking tickets waiting for their owners on Frazier Avenue Monday afternoon.
Parking ambassadors wearing green polo shirts will be seen issuing these tickets instead of police officers. Brent Matthews, Director of Parking said, "They are out there to enforce the meters. We are trying to cut down on the meter feeding, and if there is an expired meter they are going to ticket it."
If you get a parking violation you can go online and pay for it. Each ticket has the website on the back, or you can stop by and pay at the parking store on Market Street next to the Choo Choo. Matthews said, "You can come down here and pay the ticket. We can resolve any issues that you have here. If you had an issue with a meter, you can come down here, file an appeal and we could quickly resolve that if there was an issue."
In addition to issuing parking tickets, the ambassadors will provide assistance to the public in a variety of ways. Tonya Strickland, Parking Ambassador said, "We carry a back pack with a lot of helpful tools in it for the tourists. Like maps, brochures, restaurants and events. Sites and entertainment and places to see." They are also responsible for litter pick up and hardware checks. Each carry cell phones and can contact the police to report any issues.
CARTA also kicked off its hospitality program. That will provide free late night shuttle service to restaurant and hotel employees. For more information call the Chattanooga Parking Authority at 423-648-4031.
