More Free Parking and Events to Attract More People Downtown

The Yakima City Council held a study session on downtown development at city hall
Tuesday.  City Manager Tony O'Rourke suggested making parking more accessible
for those who want to spend time in the downtown area.  O'Rourke proposed council
members switch from 2 hour free parking to 4 hour free parking with those who
have permits parking in private lots. O'Rourke says the city also needs more
special events to get more people downtown. The council heard a number of
suggestions from O'Rourke. He's expected to talk further with the council in
the near future. The council is expected to formally vote on the changes within
the next month.