Schenectady, N.Y., March 27, 2007 — Metroplex today released information on use of its seven parking lots and parking garage by visitors and people working downtown in 2006.   The results show more people are working, visiting, shopping and enjoying the performing arts in downtown Schenectady.

“As the revitalization of downtown continues, we are seeing an across the board increase in use of our parking lots and garage,” said Metroplex Chair Ray Gillen.

The number of downtown employees holding monthly parking permits either in the Metroplex-owned garage or seven surface lots increased 15% last year. Metroplex now has 1,300 monthly parking permit holders, up from less than 500 in 2004.

The number of cars utilizing paid parking lots increased 20% over 2005 with 86,000 users. The number of cars utilizing free two hour parking totaled nearly 69,000.

Overall revenue from the parking system was up 48.2% to $526,000.

Metroplex assumed control of the downtown parking garage and surface lots in 2004 from the City of Schenectady.   Improvements have been made to the parking lots including reconstruction, landscaping and restriping.   In addition, substantial upgrades have been made to the parking garage.