WILKES-BARRE, LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — Good news: If you're stopping to shop in Downtown Wilkes-Barre this holiday season, you might be able to park for free.
From now until January 6, the city of Wilkes-Barre is suspending parking meter fees in its business district.
It's an effort to support the small businesses downtown has to offer.
With the holiday season stepping into full swing, local businesses say they'd like to see people shop small this year.
"Small businesses are the backbone of most communities. They're on the main streets and on the side streets and they are people who live in the area and open up business in the downtown areas," said Abide Coffeehouse co-owner Dan Shission.
Courtesy of the City of Wilkes-Barre Mayor's Office
To bring people to its downtown, the City of Wilkes-Barre is offering free parking in the business district.
Free holiday meter parking in select areas of downtown Wilkes-Barre
Shelby Gushka from Diamond City Partnership says she hopes the move will encourage people to check out all the area has to offer.
"There's always going to be those big box stores, but really there's something special when you come down to these small businesses. It's handmade. There's a lot of love put into it and time and energy," said Gushka.
This upcoming Saturday marks small business Saturday, so, there's no better time to show support.
"We just ask that the community really backs them up during this time. The holiday season is a perfect time to get into these small businesses and really patronize them," Gushka stated.
Also happening this Saturday is the holiday vendor market in downtown Wilkes-Barre.
The event will feature more than 25 local businesses.
