By Yaffi Spodek
If you’re a driver in Park Slope, you’ve probably spent more than your fair share of time looking for a parking spot — about 27 minutes per day, according to a recent study by Transportation Alternatives. But those hours of endless circling could shrink, thanks to ParkingAroundMe, or PAM, a free service that allows drivers to give or get a vacant space via text message. PAM is a project of Roadify, a grassroots organization based in Park Slope.
Since its launch in November, PAM has attracted nearly 500 users, according to Roadify. “The idea is that you have to give to get, and if you give people a medium in which to do it, then they’ll actively participate.” says Dylan Goelz, Roadify’s marketing director. Each time they give or get a spot, PAM members earn and lose StreetCARma points, which keep track of how many gives and gets a person texts. “Super Givers” are recognized each week on Roadify.com, and the company eventually hopes to reward them by giving out certificates redeemable at local businesses.
One Supergiver is Eric Arredondo, a 20-year-old who joined in January and has since given more than 50 spots. Although he lives in Sunset Park, Arredondo works part time as a cab driver in Park Slope, and usually gives about three or four spots a day.
Drawing on PAM’s model, Roadify launched a new service just last week called BusesAroundMe, or BAM, which tracks the B67 bus line as it travels through Park Slope. Using information from the MTA bus schedule, plus tips from commuters, BAM sends updates on arrival times at specific stops, potentially reducing waiting time for riders and notifying them of delays.
To join Roadify, just text PAM or BAM to 95495. For now, the service is limited to the Park Slope neighborhood, but Roadify plans to expand.
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