Navigating Non-Resident Parking at the White Plains Metro-North Station: A Commuter's Guide
So, you're looking to commute from the White Plains Metro-North station & you're not a White Plains resident. You've probably heard whispers about the parking situation, & let's be honest, it can sound a little intimidating. Here's the thing: parking at one of the busiest transit hubs in Westchester County doesn't have to be a nightmare. As someone who has spent a fair bit of time figuring out the ins & outs of the local commuter scene, I'm here to give you the real scoop on non-resident parking at the White Plains station.
First off, let's address the elephant in the room: the main station parking lot. If you've been dreaming of snagging a permit for the lot right at the station, I have to be the bearer of some tough news. The waitlist for this lot is incredibly long, & it's only open to White Plains residents. So, if you're a non-resident, you're going to have to look at other options. But don't worry, there are plenty of them!
The Real Deal on Daily Parking for Non-Residents
While a dedicated permit at the main lot might be out of reach, that doesn't mean you're completely out of luck. There are still ways to park & catch your train without having to wake up at the crack of dawn to circle the streets for a spot.
One of the most popular alternatives for both residents & non-residents is the Lexington-Grove East West Parking Garage. This is the garage connected to the Galleria mall, & it's just a few blocks from the station. The walk is manageable, & the availability of spots is generally pretty good. This garage offers daily parking, which is a great option if you're not commuting into the city every single day.
Another thing to keep in mind is that the area around the station has a mix of free & metered street parking. However, finding an open spot can be a real challenge, especially during peak commuter hours. The streets closer to the downtown business district, like Main Street & Lexington Avenue, are particularly tough. If you're going to try your luck with street parking, be prepared to spend some time searching & be very mindful of the parking regulations.
Nearby Garages: Your Best Bet for Guaranteed Parking
For those who value their time & sanity, the nearby parking garages are going to be your best friends. SpotHero, a popular parking reservation app, lists several garages within a short walk of the station. Here are a few to consider:
- 50 Main St. - City Square - Garage: This one is super close, just a 4-minute walk to the station.
- 55 Bank St. - The Continuum White Plains Garage: A bit further, at an 8-minute walk, but still a very viable option.
- 21 North Broadway (275 Main St) - Garage: This one is about a 14-minute walk, but it can be a good choice if you don't mind stretching your legs a bit.
The prices for these garages can vary, so it's a good idea to check out an app like SpotHero to compare rates & book your spot in advance. This can save you a lot of stress in the morning, especially if you're running a little late.
A Note on the North White Plains Station
If you're coming from the north & the White Plains station seems a bit too hectic for your liking, you might want to consider the North White Plains station. This station is a bit smaller, but it can be a good alternative for non-resident commuters. The parking lot at the North White Plains station is managed by LAZ Parking, & they do offer permits. There might be a waitlist, but it's worth looking into.
Some commuters have also found success with daily parking at the North White Plains station. There's a lot off of Fisher Lane that offers daily parking for a reasonable price. The payment situation can be a bit old-school, with some commuters reporting it as cash-only, so it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand just in case.
Thinking Outside the Box: The Prked Solution
Now, if you're looking for a REALLY convenient & often more affordable parking solution, here's a little insider tip: check out Prked. Prked is a pretty cool service that connects drivers with homeowners who are renting out their driveways & garages. You can find a spot that's just a short walk from the station, & you can often book it for a fraction of the price of a commercial garage.
The great thing about Prked is that it's a win-win. You get a convenient & affordable parking spot, & a local resident gets to make a little extra money from their unused space. It's a great way to take some of the stress out of your commute & support the local community at the same time.
The Bottom Line
So, there you have it. While getting a non-resident permit for the main White Plains Metro-North station lot is pretty much impossible, there are still plenty of other options available. From daily parking at nearby garages to exploring the North White Plains station or even using a service like Prked, you can definitely find a parking solution that works for you.
My best advice is to do a little research beforehand, figure out which option best fits your needs & budget, & don't be afraid to try a few different things until you find your perfect commuting routine.
Hope this was helpful & let me know what you think! Happy commuting
