SAN ANTONIO – It was great weather on Tuesday to enjoy spring break, and for many it was a great day to take advantage of Downtown Tuesday.
This month marks the three-year anniversary of Downtown Tuesday.
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"By having programs like Downtown Tuesday, to really let people know we want the heart of the city to thrive," said Roberto Carlos Trevino, San Antonio city councilman District 1. "We want people from all over the city to enjoy all the great attractions that happen downtown."
Downtown Tuesday includes perks to provide people better access to the downtown area from free parking to promotions at local businesses.
Trevino said there is a special E-route in the works with VIA that would enable locals to park, and catch a bus that would make its way through the entertainment district and restaurants.
The route will be available April 28.
San Antonio resident Eric Rivera said he lives on the city's Southeast side, but decided to bring his family downtown to take advantage of the free parking.
"If it's a Tuesday, we want to get out of the house," said Rivera. "We'll come down, maybe bring the kids to walk around the Riverwalk and show them the Alamo, the church, maybe go toLa Villita, walk around."
Trevino said the program appears to be working, bringing locals back downtown.
"We're trying to address an ongoing issue to attract more people," said Trevino. "We've seen an increase of 65 percent in the amount of parking over the last three years."
Downtown Tuesday offers parking at city-operated parking garages, parking lots and parking meters 5 p.m. Tuesday to 2 a.m. Wednesday.
In addition to free parking, the city has partnered with dozens of local businesses to provide specials and discounts. Click here for more information on Downtown Tuesday.