Gizmo will direct you to empty parking spots

Here's a story from this week's Bronx Press.

By Brendan McHugh 

DOT hopes the senors can withstand the
New York weather and traffic conditions.

Need a parking spot? There may soon be an app for that. 

If the technology proves durable, drivers in the Bronx will be the first to find parking spots by checking their smartphones. 

Hockey puck sized sensors were drilled into the streets near Arthur Avenue last week in 177 parking spaces on both sides of 187th Street in Belmont. If they can survive the harsh weather conditions of New York for the next three months, motorists will be able to download a free application on their phones to find vacant parking spots. 

"We are making it easier for drivers to park. We are actually piloting new technology that will bring parking information into the palm of your hand," said Janette Sadik-Khan, the NYC DOT Commissioner. 

“There are benefits, not only to drivers but to the surrounding community,” she said. “You’re relieving the congestion and pollution associated with those people who are cruising around looking for parking.” 

The app will tell drivers if there are a high number of open spaces, if it is beginning to fill up, or if there are virtually no spots available. 

Sadik-Khan said they haven’t figured out how drivers will use the app while driving; using a mobile device not physically connected to the car is illegal in New York. 

“Right now we’re just testing the equipment,” she said. “The parking app has worked in other cities that have done it.” 

Savor the Bronx during Restaurant Week

Here's a story from this week's Bronx Press and Riverdale Review.

By Miawling Lam 

Prepare to loosen your belt buckles and prime your palates: It’s time to eat.

The inaugural Bronx restaurant week, which kicked off on Tuesday and runs through November 13, will showcase the borough’s rich cultural diversity and dining scene.

Under the initiative, more than 30 restaurants will offer patrons a range of special discounts and promotions including prix-fixe three-course meals, complimentary coffee and dessert or 20 percent off the entire tab.

Among the participants include old-school Italian joint Mike’s Deli on Arthur Avenue, classical French restaurant Bistro SK on City Island and Riverdale Steak House. Three local Applebee’s branches are even getting involved.

Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. said the event would provide diners a chance to sample some of the borough’s finest food.

“I invite everyone to visit and savor the Bronx,” he said. “Our inaugural Savor the Bronx! Restaurant Week is the ideal time to try a new restaurant or return to a favorite. The Bronx is your oyster.”

Jump below for the full story.