Free parking on Wednesday evenings, first Fridays to end in Center City

Starting next month, motorists will no longer be able to park for free in Center City on Wednesday evenings and first Fridays.

The Philadelphia Parking Authority says it will end the two longstanding parking promotions in part due to the expanding use of its new app.

Beginning Oct. 5, parking will no longer be free on Wednesdays after 5 p.m., while starting Oct. 7, free parking won't be offered after 5 p.m. on the first Friday of each month.

"The conclusion of these promotions is intended to increase parking opportunities for those shopping and dining in the city, and in light of the increased flexibility afforded by the meterUP app," the agency said on its website this week. "In addition, the PPA has increased time limits in the evening on most Center City blocks allowing enough time for people participating in night time activities without being rushed to get back to move their car."

The pay-by-phone app that lets drivers bypass kiosks started with a pilot program in Center City and a handful of other locations. It expanded to more sections of the city this summer.

In other parking news, Friday is Park(ing) Day in Philadelphia, an annual one-day event that turns parking spots into mini parks.