(MOBILE, Ala.) - Mobile Mardi Gras revelers will no longer be able to park on the median near the Mobile Convention Center. In the past it's been a popular and convenient spot that police say has become a hazard.
“I know people have been parking there forever,” Cpl. Chris Levy. “Why wait until someone gets hurt to make a change?”
Police say between lighting issues and drivers speeding off and on to I-10, it creates a dangerous situation.
“People are walking out, trying to cross the street between parked cars when it’s hard to see them,” Levy said. “You also have people stopping in fast-moving traffic to get up a curb.”
Police are asking drivers instead to park at the CSX building or cruise terminal for a fee of $10, which is bumped up to $15 on Joe Cain Day and Fat Tuesday.
Police say they’ll be trying to give as much warning as possible to drivers parking in prohibited areas. Towed vehicles will be taken to a temporary lot under the I-10 bridge. After 11 p.m., cars are moved to the regular impound lot behind the PD’s training academy at 1251 Virginia Street. Getting your vehicle back costs $125, payable by cash and credit or debit card.
Mobile Police will begin closing streets in the downtown area about one hour before each scheduled parade. Non-parking areas will be designated by signage, including special green and gold Mardi Gras “No Parking” signs along parade routes.
