Downtown parking - Mellon Arena or a garage? (Washington, Manor: lease, condo)

[canfield]

Hi all....I searched through the commuting threads and also searched for the word "parking," but nothing I found addresses my question.

I'm starting a new job where I'll be coming in from the north....79 to 279 to 579. Working right in downtown and trying to understand what's the better option - parking in a garage for $250-$275 a month, or parking at Mellon Arena and walking for around $140 a month at $7 a day. Looking strictly at the price, it's a no-brainer to park at Mellon Arena, but both my interviews were at 8 in the morning and both days I noticed that the line of cars in the Mellon Arena exit lane was huge - this was about 7:15-7:30am.

I'd prefer to save the money and get some exercise while walking, but at a quick glance I'm thinking that the Smithfield Street garage might be 1) quicker both in and out; 2) safer - although theft can occur anywhere, it's probably more likely on a surface lot; 3) more weatherproof in the winter as it's underground.

What have I forgotten to consider? Which option would you pick and why? Thanks in advance for your help!

[guylocke]

There is a garage next door to the Mellon Arena. It is part of the Washington Place/Marriot Plaza. Technically, it would be slightly closer to your job because it is located on the downtown side of the arena. I live in the condo's there and pay $162 a month for the garage. I believe I get a SLIGHT discount because I am a resident here.

However, if you wanted a garage (instead of Mellon Arena parking), you should look into it. I know if two people buy a pass together you can get a "buddy pass deal" and it's a bit cheaper than the normal rates, too.

Also, my garage is only one block away from Steel City T station, so you could take the trolly further downtown for free if you didn't want to walk everyday (the trolly is free if you're traveling downtown to downtown).

[jbjohnston]

If you're worried about the walk in bad weather, the Mellon Arena has a shuttle service that goes down and drops you off by Mellon One, which beats walking. However, it's kind of a pain to get out of there in the afternoon - traffic backs up pretty badly. Also, I'm not sure what construction is going to do to the arena lots - I thought I heard that some of them were going to be closed down.

Another possibility you might try is parking in the Strip District - there's a lot off of Smallman Street that also has a shuttle service. That won't be as convenient for you to get to 579, though.

[fton400]

I don't know if this will factor into your decision, but, unless the arena prices have changed recently, $7 is only the most expensive lot. The back lot is a dollar cheaper.

[canfield]

Thanks to all for the responses. I ended up going with a monthly lease at the Manor Square garage on Forbes for $180 a month. It's all of a 5 minute walk to the office, plus it's relatively easy to jump down onto 279 to head back north.