Town Square Garage changing how you pay

 On or about July 31, 2023 (so the end of next month) they are switching payment systems in Garage 61. This is the Town Square Garage next to the Silver Spring Civic Building and Ellsworth Drive.  Instead of paying when you return to your car, you will have to pay in advance for how long you think you will be there.  I have mixed feelings on this. On one hand, I really like paying when I leave so I pay exactly the right amount. I also really don't like the pay-by-plate system, it is too slow. I much prefer pay by parking spot number. On the other hand, I have long found it odd that there are so many different payment systems in different garages throughout Montgomery County

According to the Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT):

 On or about July 31, 2023, Garage 61 will be converted to a pay-by-plate facility. Click here to learn more about the payment system. Mobile payment will be available following the conversion through Parkmobile and Passport. To use mobile payment, enter the seven digit zone number (3610001), enter your license plate, choose your duration and begin the session. Card Access will be replaced by PCS Permits.

 

Old and new payment machines

 

The old payment machines are still active until the end of July, the one on the left accepts credit cards and cash (exact change only), the one on the right only accepts credit cards.  The two new machines are already installed but are covered up.

Also worth noting is that in both Silver Spring and Bethesda you will have to pay to park on Saturdays starting from July 8.  MCDOT says "On or about July 8, 2023, Saturday payment will be required.  Rates and hours requiring payment will be the same as the rest of the week."

Mission: Earth - An Exhibition at NOAA

On February 6th through the 13th between 11 am and 4 pm (except Sunday Feb 7) the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is hosting an exhibition about Earth observation science and technology. See some of the tools NOAA uses to study land, sea, and sky as well as hands-on exhibits, guest speakers, and video presentations.

Located in the NOAA Science Center at 1301 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD, admission is free. Public parking is available, near the Silver Spring Metro Station, photo ID required for adults. Visit their website for more information and a schedule of events.

Silver Spring Civic Center construction

Construction of the civic center in downtown Silver Spring, MD is proceeding, a lot of the steel girders are now up. It is on the corner of Ellsworth Drive and Fenton Street. (photo taken by G. Edward Johnson on July 7, 2009).