As Fiesta fever is set to hit the streets of downtown San Antonio, revelers driving in for the celebrations are facing a tough test of patience due to ongoing construction limiting parking options. Fox San Antonio reports there's a maze of construction activity around prime Fiesta locations like La Villita and Market Square, with Patti Zaiontz, a NIOSA Spokesperson, admitting,“It's very limited. There is still construction going on at Civic Park. There are hotels being built on Alamo, the plaza is finally open. But there's a lot of construction,”

Kelly Saunders, San Antonio Public Relations Manager, cautioned Fiesta-goers “If you are driving. Give yourself plenty of time,” The city is not taking the squeeze on parking spaces lightly and has prepared to carefully assist visitors with a dedicated website showcasing a dozen parking options. "The City of San Antonio has set up a website to help people plan ahead before they come downtown," Saunders mentioned to Fox San Antonio.

Moving beyond the construction commotion, the city is doubling down on alternative transportation methods. According to a statement obtained by Fox San Antonio, Saunders nods to multiple transit options, saying, "We also were encouraging attendees to take public transportation. Via is going to be offering ride share, or biking or walking to the events." With parking spots in high demand and the city's downtown Free Parking Tuesdays taking a hiatus next week, it's clear that advanced planning is imperative.

For Fiesta 2022 attendees who managed to comfortably reach the festivities, the story was different. Express News detailed that parking didn't have to derail one's Fiesta plans with city-owned spots available at 13 locations offering a variety of garages and lots. While those days of $10 public lots and VIA Park and Ride spots were simpler, this year, cashless payments are the norm, and one should be prepared to pay more—some lots boast an event rate of $15.

Though present inconveniences loom, there is a light at the end of the tunnel, as Zaiontz shared a hopeful note with Fox San Antonio, saying there is hope the construction on Alamo Street will be wrapped up by 2025. Until then, Fiesta attendees may have to add 'finding parking' to their list of scheduled events. For those wishing to skirt the limited parking pandemonium, the city's website offers information on parking costs and ADA accessibility at Fox San Antonio and a guide to previous parking and transportation options can be referenced at Express News.