San Francisco - January 08, 2007

Spot On

Parkmatch Parking Spot Finder

Parking in the city can really test your limits. You’ll circle the block, oh, only 35 times before taking the hit on a $50 ticket. (Hey, it’s a small price to pay for not going completely zonkers.)

And now, for a why-didn’t-anyone-think-of-this-sooner alternative: ParkMatch, a genius new online service that pairs the have-spots with the have-nots.

You start by registering for an account. If you have a space to rent, list the times you’re not using it (during fourteen-hour days or three-month sabbaticals in Tibet) and your asking price. If you’re looking for a spot, check listings to find out what’s available by neighborhood or price range (nab a monthly lot in the Financial District or park on Potrero Hill for $100 a month).

You can also search for info on airport parking lots and garages and get user reviews on parking areas.

Meter maids? Feh. Those bitches got nothing on you.

Available online at parkmatch.com.