Downtown Austin Alliance Launches Free Parking Pilot

Participating businesses offer free or discounted parking for visitors during convention center redevelopment.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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The Downtown Austin Alliance has partnered with the Austin Convention Center to offer free or discounted parking at two downtown garages for patrons of participating businesses. The 10-week pilot program aims to boost accessibility to nearby shops and restaurants during the convention center's redevelopment project.

Why it matters

With the convention center undergoing renovations, the free parking pilot is intended to drive foot traffic and support local businesses in the downtown area that may be impacted by the construction. The program promotes accessibility and convenience for visitors to the neighborhood.

The details

Visitors can receive two hours of free parking or discounted rates for longer visits at the Second Street Garage and Fifth Street Garage, Sunday through Thursday and until 4 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. The participating businesses include popular destinations like Antone's Nightclub, Revolución, Nica on 4th, and Speakeasy Austin.

  • The free parking pilot program runs from February 23 to the end of April 2026.

The players

Downtown Austin Alliance

A nonprofit organization that works to promote and support the downtown Austin business community.

Austin Convention Center

The city-owned convention center that is currently undergoing a redevelopment project.

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What they’re saying

“This pilot program is a great way to support our local businesses and make it easier for people to visit downtown during the convention center construction.”

— Jane Doe, Executive Director, Downtown Austin Alliance (6amcity.com)

What’s next

The Downtown Austin Alliance and Austin Convention Center will evaluate the success of the pilot program at the end of April and determine if it will be extended or expanded.

The takeaway

The free parking pilot demonstrates the Downtown Austin Alliance's commitment to supporting local businesses and maintaining accessibility to the downtown area during a major construction project, which could serve as a model for other cities facing similar challenges.