Real-time metered parking information now available at Fort Totten

A trial program has been underway at the Fort Totten Metrorail station Kiss and Ride Lot for the past few months and includes 32 metered parking spaces and four spaces for people with disabilities. The system uses sensors embedded in the pavement and in parking meters to let users know when spaces are available and when they should save time, energy and reduce their carbon footprint by driving to a different lot or using another mode to access Metro.

Real-time space availability information from the Fort Totten Kiss and Ride Lot is currently available on Metro's web site on the Fort Totten parking page and via the free Parker by Streetline app, available for the iPhone and Android phones in Apple's App Store and Google's Android Market. The app also works on compatable tablets such as iPads. (Customers are reminded never to use mobile apps while driving.)

Parker by Streetline continuously tracks the user's position and orientation on the Smartphone screen (similar to an in-car navigation system), shows a timer to help keep track of how much time is left on the meter, and helps the user find their parking spot when they return to the lot.

The app also includes information about all Metro daily and metered parking at Metrorail stations throughout the District of Columbia, Maryland and Virginia. Sensors are not yet available for other lots, but the location and types of spaces as well as parking hours and rates are visible in the app. In addition, Metro is looking at ways to enable payment for parking at meters by cell phone and through a Smartphone app.