Camden To Sell Parking Spaces Along Waterfront During Papal Visit
By Mike DeNardo
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- A month ago, New Jersey transportation officials said there would be no public parking in Camden for the Pope's visit, but now, an about face. The city is selling parking spaces along the waterfront.
The original plan was for registered papal tour buses to park at the Philadelphia sports complex, and along the Camden waterfront. Officials a month ago said there was no room in Camden for public parking, but Camden Mayor Dana Redd says there has been a change in plans.
"The buses were originally intended, 1500 buses, to park on the Camden parking lots. Unfortunately that particular contract was canceled by the World Meeting of Families."
That's after a total of 1,100 buses signed up with the World Meeting of Families.
Now, 8,000 spots on the Camden waterfront are being sold for $43.78 a day. Drivers have to preregister and prepay at gatewaytothepope.com. Redd says that's the standard rate for event parking. Papal pilgrims can then take PATCO, the RiverLink Ferry or walk to Philadelphia over the Ben Franklin Bridge.
