Neighbors near Lemon Hill worry about parking ahead of FIFA Fan Fest

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- While many people are excited for the FIFA Fan Fest, residents living near Lemon Hill say they are concerned about parking as the 39-day festival approaches.

"Philly already got a big problem with the parking," said Kahssian of Brewerytown.

Residents say they worry the issue will worsen when the FIFA Fan Festival takes over East Fairmount Park.

"I have young kids that are excited to see the fest, but I feel I don't know enough about how inconvenient it's going to be," said Eileen Smith of Fairmount.

To ensure residents can still park near their homes, the Philadelphia Parking Authority is asking people living in the area to apply for a temporary parking permit. From June 11 through July 19, permits will be required for all vehicles parked on the street within the designated area outlined by the city.

"The pass is for the entire area from Strawberry Mansion down to Spring Garden, so you can park anywhere in that area if you have this special permit parking pass," said Councilmember Jeffrey Young Jr.

Young said parking enforcement will only occur during event operations.

"Parking enforcement will only be during the times of the games at the FIFA Fan Fest when the fan fest is actually activated," he said.

Some residents said they were unaware of the permitting process, with the festival only a month away. Young said changes to the legislation delayed the process.

Residents can apply for temporary permits through the Philadelphia Parking Authority website at philapark.org/lemonhill by submitting proof of residency and vehicle registration. Each household can also receive two visitor passes.