Minneapolis Offers Free Off-Street Parking Ahead Of Snowstorm

MINNEAPOLIS — A truly epic winter storm could dump another 2 feet of snow onto Minneapolis, adding more stress to what has already been a chaotic season for the city's public works department.

Ahead of the storm, city officials are alerting residents about opportunities for free off-street parking so they can avoid being plowed in, stuck, or ticketed and towed.

Last month, due to historic snowfalls that narrowed streets considerably, the city banned parking on the even-numbered side of non-snow-emergency routes until April 1. That means there are fewer spots for people to park during storms and snow emergencies.

"The heavy accumulation has narrowed streets, which pose a safety hazard when emergency vehicles cannot navigate these streets to reach people who need assistance," the city said last week in announcing the ban.

City officials say residents can park here for free starting today through Feb. 28:

• Farmer’s Market Lot: 309 spaces, 225 East Lyndale Ave.
• Basilica Lot: 183 spaces, 13 North 17th St.
• Vineland Ramp: 671 spaces, 727 Vineland Place

Read more: Snowstorm Will Hit 'Category 5' In Twin Cities: MN Weather