The cost of parking in some of Baltimore's most popular neighborhoods soon will double as part of an effort to close the city's $121 million budget gap.
Metered parking rates will jump to $2 an hour in Mount Vernon, Harbor East, Federal Hill, Fells Point and downtown as soon as the changes can be implemented, according to an item approved by the city's spending board Wednesday.
The higher rates bring Baltimore in line with nearby cities such a Philadelphia, New York and Washington and will expedite turnover of parking spaces, making it easier to find a spot, according to the city officials.
The higher rates are expected to bring the city $3.1 million in revenue. City Council members are contemplating raising the rates in other neighborhoods in an effort generate additional funds.