New Carrollton or Greenbelt Parking (Laurel: transfer, moving to, garage)

[whitemtnrider]

I'm moving to Laurel and will be commuting to Ballston stop on the Orange line. (I know, crummy commute, but my commuter-phobic hubby works at Meade). What's the parking situation at New Carrollton & Greenbelt stations? Honestly - how early do I have to get there to get a spot? Is one preferable over the other?

Thanks!

[CHIP72]

I'm pretty sure you wouldn't have much trouble finding a spot at either station, especially Greenbelt. There is tons of parking at both stations. Also, if the parking lot/garage is full at New Carrollton, you can just go to the next station, Landover.

I'd give the convenience edge to New Carrollton/Landover over Greenbelt, even though the latter would be a shorter drive. The key here is that Ballston is located on the Orange Line, just like New Carrollton/Landover. You wouldn't have to worry about switching trains, which would be a big plus, especially at non-rush hours. Mind you, you probably wouldn't have to wait too long for a train at L'Enfant Plaza if you switched from Green to Orange (or vice-versa), but eliminating the transfer reduces the hassle. Also, unlike many other parts of the Beltway, the traffic between Greenbelt and New Carrollton usually is considered to be not that bad during rush hours.