Detroit officials are calling parking lot owners who are preying on customers by charging exorbitant fees as high as $900 and $1,000 ahead of Saturday's Lions regional playoff game against the Washington Commanders. It's under control.
Detroit police posted notices and taped yellow tape on several downtown lots near the stadium to combat what city officials say is an “unacceptable” price trend.
A spokesperson for the city of Detroit said three parking lots were closed after a $1,000 parking fee was posted on a parking app.
The normal procedure for parking rate increases is for property owners to submit an application to the city's Building Safety, Engineering and Environment Department at least 30 days before the event.
Detroit Building Authority Director David Bell called the price gouging “disgraceful.”
Bell: “This is completely ridiculous.” said. “I don't know anyone who thinks it's reasonable to pay $900 or $1,000 to park and go to a game. If I find a parking lot that is illegally charging for parking, I We're going to take a full tour of our armory and let them know that this is a bad idea. We're going to shut them down, ticket them, take them before a Wayne County Circuit Court judge, and take their license away. We will take steps to stop this. This is completely unacceptable.”
The owners of three properties closed by police must appear before a judge to find out when they will be allowed to reopen.
