Two downtown Fort Worth parking garages will no longer offer free parking

Two downtown Fort Worth free parking leases funded by the Tax Increment Finance District (TIF) are expiring by the end of December.

These leases provided free parking on weekends and evenings in downtown Fort Worth.

The TIF parking leases began in 1999 as a way to improve downtown garages and development of buildings and to provide a complimentary benefit to the public.

An alternative parking validation program is being discussed in efforts to reduce the cost of parking for performing arts patrons in downtown, according to a news release from Downton Fort Worth, Inc.

“Downtown theaters, restaurants, and retailers rely on patrons of the performing arts for a sizable percentage of their evening business,” said DFWI Chairman Henry Borbolla. “Any assistance to bring people downtown is important, and a validation program makes sense.”

Here’s what to know about parking in downtown Fort Worth.

Where are the TIF parking leases that are expiring?

The two expiring leases are located at 401 Calhoun St. and 601 Commerce St. in downtown Fort Worth.

When will the free weekend evening parking garages expire?

These garages free parking leases will expire on Dec. 31, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. Make sure you have your New Year’s Eve ride plans in order if you’re celebrating downtown.

How much is parking normally in downtown Fort Worth?

Parking downtown varies by location, depending on whether patrons park at meters, lots or garages.

• Meters are generally pretty inexpensive, ranging from $0.50 to $2 an hour. They are free all day on weekends and after 6 p.m. on weekdays.
• The Citizen Lot by City Hall is $2 an hour with a maximum of $8 per day.
• Garages along Houston and Commerce Streets range from $3 to $24, dependent on how long one is parked for.
• The TIF parking lease at 401 Calhoun St. (City Center Garage #2) is between $5 and $20, depending on how long one is parked for.
• The other TIF lease at 601 Commerce St. (777 Main Parking Garage) is between $5 with a maximum of $25, depending on how long one is parked for.

Are there still free parking options downtown?

There are still free parking options downtown. Many businesses offer parking validation, so always check—your parking may be discounted or even free.

• There are 2,562 on-street parking metered spaces that will remain free on weekends and after 6 p.m. on weekdays.
• If you shop at restaurants or retailers that are a part of Sundance Square, you get 2.5 hours of free parking with validation at garages located at 345 W. 3rd St. and 201 W. 6th St.
• Many restaurants and hotels throughout downtown also provide valet services.
• To see downtown Fort Worth’s full list of parking locations, see their website here.