A program intended to provide some financial relief for those who make the city’s downtown economy hum will be expanded.

The City of Austin and the Downtown Austin Alliance partnered to create the Affordable Parking Program initiative in 2016. The program initially offered about 200 overnight spaces in two locations for a monthly fee. It will now expand to include approximately 500 spaces in four locations.

The new facilities are the City Hall garage at 301 W. Second St. and the One Texas Center garage at 505 Barton Springs Road. The program also includes parking at the Waller Creek Center grade at 625 E. 10th St. and the State of Texas garage at 300 San Antonio St.

“This program is an important step in relieving parking-related traffic congestion,” said Jason Redfern, parking operations manager with the Austin Transportation Department. “Austin Transportation is always looking for options that can help people navigate the city more effectively and enjoy what downtown has to offer. We’re thrilled to partner with the Downtown Austin Alliance to expand this program.”

Those interested in the Affordable Parking Program must fill out an application at the city’s website. The monthly passes at the Waller Creek Center, One Texas Center and City Hall garages cost $35 per month, and the pass at the State of Texas Garage north costs $65 per month.

“Having enough convenient, available parking spaces is critical to keeping traffic flowing as downtown continues to grow. It’s also crucial to keeping the economy going, as parking options help attract people to work, eat and shop downtown,” said Downtown Austin Alliance CEO Dewitt Peart in a news release.

Each garage will be open to passholders seven days a week, but hours vary. More information can be found at www.austintexas.gov/affordableparking.