SEATTLE -- Mariners fans can't wait to get to Friday night's season home opener at Safeco Field. Navigating area streets and finding a place to park, however, could prove to be stressful.
With abundant construction around the SODO district, there are fewer places to park and more closed streets than in past years. Washington State Department of Transportation's Matt Preedy said parking conditions are not expected to change anytime soon and the increased amount of road closures will add to baseball season traffic.
Preedy recommends mass transit to get to the game. Buses, light rail, walking and biking are all alternatives to avoid some of the area congestion.
For fans who do plan on making the journey by car, Preedy advises drivers to pre-plan where to park. There are various parking lots and garages surrounding Safeco Field.
Metered parking will be extended to 8 p.m. downtown and in the Chinatown International Distict, but not in Pioneer Square. Make sure to check what time the meters at your parking space expire.
According to the Mariners website, disabled accessibility to the stadium will also be affected by some of the construction. Pick-up and drop-off areas will vary throughout the season.
Helpful links to information for opening day:
Parking garages and lots near Safeco Field
Up-to-date traffic conditions and Tracy Taylor's First Alert Traffic
Road conditions and closures around the Greater Seattle Area
