More Airport Parking Is Needed Now
A Times article Jan. 9 declared the number of parking spaces at the Van Nuys Flyaway Terminal would be doubled. Parking there has become so tight, especially on holidays, that up to 1,000 cars park off the lot. This has become a bone in the throat for area residents.
The problem began in 1975 when the Flyaway was opened. One could park for 15 days for just $1. The lot became so popular that the Airport Commission decided to kill the goose that laid the golden egg by increasing the parking fee 1,400%! This had the effect of giving an incentive to motorists to park off the lot, despite available spaces.
The Airport Commission committed a second blunder by slashing the bus fare 25%. The increased parking fee was now compensated for by the reduced bus fare. This stimulated more air passengers to come to an already-filled lot.
Although parking at the Flyaway has been a problem for a decade, the Airport Commission is now aware that additional parking is needed. But get this: Cars will not be able to use the completed structure until 1995.
In the meantime, there is a five-acre area between the terminal building and Woodley Avenue. This could rapidly be converted to parking. But that is “not in the plans.”
HARRY PACE
North Hollywood
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