A's Fans Take It in the Shorts...due to Oakland's budget woes.
by Imaseasonticketholder on Jul 7, 2009 4:30 PM PDT
119 comments
From the Oakland Tribune
"A dispute has arisen between Alameda County and the city of Oakland over parking at the Coliseum.
The county has filed suit against the city for enforcing its 18.5 percent city parking tax on spots on the Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum property. The Coliseum property is jointly owned by both the county and city, and governed by a joint-powers authority mainly made up of officials from both sides.
The new enforcement of the tax will have an immediate effect on baseball fans. The A's announced Monday parking fees will go up $2 at the Coliseum starting with the next homestand."
I mean really, Oakland, just continue to show your disdain for your sport's franchises. YOU only recognize them when the team goes to the play-offs and the mayor gets to bet with the opposing team's mayor. Or, if you can squeeze more money out.
Watching these games on tv is getting more & more tempting.
Fortunately season ticket holder's parking will be the same. But $17 for parking at the Colisuem?
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Use the SECRET VIP LOT
That certain transit agency has its own fiscal problems, but at least they rarely bother to charge people to park there on evenings and weekends. Of course, it’s a pain when they don’t bother to turn on the escalators up to the bridge.
by Englishmajor on Jul 7, 2009 4:45 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Only problem is, I've had my car "worked on" by neighborhood mechanics during the game.
Push come to shove, I’ll probably park at San Leandro BART
"We get two outs, and I was sure, and I had a plan, and I shook Tek off," Schilling said. "And I get a big 'What if?' for the rest of my life."
by Imaseasonticketholder on Jul 7, 2009 5:09 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
That and I'm always hassled by someone looking for a handout on the way in
by athletics68 on Jul 7, 2009 5:22 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sorry, I'll stop
I like Cindi. A. She never pretends to know more than she does. B. She has unbridled enthusiasm for her "Hotties," and isn't afraid to show it. -IM4Oakgal
by Nico on Jul 7, 2009 7:31 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
At least keep an eye on the car for the guy.
Then it’s less like a handout and more like a job.
by LoneStranger on Jul 8, 2009 11:53 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
"worked on" by neighborhood mechanics
That is a hilarious way of putting it.
by fansince1980 on Jul 7, 2009 8:36 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ima with you, Ima. Bayfair and San Leandro always have free spots near the station.
The meaning of life is not so much 'found,' as it is 'made.' --Opus
by The Dogfather on Jul 8, 2009 6:56 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
BART to the game is the way to go. $17? Fuhgettaboutit.
by solotar on Jul 7, 2009 4:46 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
BART sucks. I'd rather not go at all.
Back then, my idol was Bugs Bunny, because I saw a cartoon of him playing ball - you know, the one where he plays every position himself with nobody else on the field but him? Now that I think of it, Bugs is still my idol. You have to love a ballplayer like that.
~Nomar Garciaparra
by UncleLeo on Jul 7, 2009 5:18 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
After visiting PETCO Park this weekend in San Diego...
I’m inclined to agree. They keep jacking up the parking prices it’ll end up being cheaper to go down and see them in San Diego, LA and Anaheim. And you’ll get a better stadium experience at all 3 too as all 3 stadiums are beautiful in their own ways. Unlike what’s left of the Coliseum.
by athletics68 on Jul 7, 2009 5:21 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
why does BART suck?
honestly, I’m interested to know
by bobnothing on Jul 8, 2009 11:57 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
because it doesn't have individual isolation cars
and you have to sit near (gasp) other people!
I fondly remember the Coliseum’s individual isolation area (AKA the third deck!)
"Flea Markets aren't just for blind dates anymore!"- The Reverend Billy Lard
by Gaijin_Suketto on Jul 8, 2009 4:43 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Your joke is understood and well taken
But it’s also true to an extent. More than once I’ve been unfortunate enough to be next to someone who hadn’t bathed in days (or even weeks) on BART. And the occasional crazy guy talking to the wall or panhandler can also be annoying to downright disturbing other times I’ve ridden.
Not saying it happens all the time, but I’ve never been next to anyone with bad hygiene or whack jobs in my car.
by athletics68 on Jul 8, 2009 4:55 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh sure, make your standards for friends be that high!
by LoneStranger on Jul 9, 2009 8:15 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Damn right
Don’t want them stinking up my upholstery or spilling on it. Have you seen some of the crap stuck to seats on BART?
by athletics68 on Jul 9, 2009 3:50 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't mind crazy hoboes,
but I freak out in crowds…
I always used to sit in the upper deck by myself or with a friend or two, but by ourselves…
Now, when I do go to a game, it’s usually a Monday or Tuesday night game against a noncondender, so I can be assured of my personal space, which is, admittedly, more personal space than a lot of people need…
I wish the A’s had a grass berm like the Rivercats where I could go early and put down a blanket and guarantee myself at least 20-25 square feet of personal space…
"Flea Markets aren't just for blind dates anymore!"- The Reverend Billy Lard
by Gaijin_Suketto on Jul 9, 2009 5:38 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ya I'm not big on being in large crowds either.
The worst is if you actually manage to get a seat on the bart train, you will inevitably get someones fat ass in your face. Not fun at all.
"True fact: In a global thermonuclear war, the only human who would survive would be David Eckstein" -PT
by travdog6 on Jul 10, 2009 1:31 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Bart riders are so much less crazy and more recently bathed than Muni or most other public transit systems
In play, run(s)! Talk dirty to me gamecast, talk dirty. - Nevermoor on FK
by designatedforassignment on Jul 9, 2009 3:10 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Eh they're better than NYC subway riders and Muni riders sure...
But they’re worse than say VTA lightrail riders, in general of course.
by athletics68 on Jul 9, 2009 3:49 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I, for one, love taking BART to the game.
No parking, relatively cheap, don’t need to worry about a DD, right at the stadium, get to watch the underage kids drinking some sort of liquid concoction out of paper bags; what could be better?
by Synx on Jul 8, 2009 5:56 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
remember, the kids spell 'syrup'
s-e-r-p
"Flea Markets aren't just for blind dates anymore!"- The Reverend Billy Lard
by Gaijin_Suketto on Jul 9, 2009 5:33 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Reminded me of this
"True fact: In a global thermonuclear war, the only human who would survive would be David Eckstein" -PT
by travdog6 on Jul 10, 2009 1:31 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
that is ridiculous
what a joke. $17 to park for 3 hours at a very old and cheesey stadium? It pisses me off.
You have to include smiley faces - Poppy
;- ) :- ) :-O : -> : -] : -}
by micdog2001 on Jul 7, 2009 6:34 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
That's $5.67/hour
That’s a deal compared to some of the parking lots near my old job in the city…..
There's no crying in baseball!
by gigglingone on Jul 7, 2009 7:32 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, but you're also spending more money to be there...
…instead of making money at the job. ;-)
Last of the Ninth - Photography Site / jamesvenes.com - Blog
by Flashfire on Jul 7, 2009 8:13 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Someone on this message board complained about the cost of the MLB
package on televsion (through their cable provider) being too costly. After factoring in costs for food, adult beverage, and parking, is it really? And what about time?
by LowcountryJoe on Jul 7, 2009 6:45 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
see, this is bullshit.
It costs more to park than it does to buy a ticket.
"I’m Joey Devine, I’m what Joba Chamberlain would be if he was good and nobody had ever heard of him."
by mikev on Jul 7, 2009 7:01 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Then again, parking is less frustrating than watching the game.
I like Cindi. A. She never pretends to know more than she does. B. She has unbridled enthusiasm for her "Hotties," and isn't afraid to show it. -IM4Oakgal
by Nico on Jul 7, 2009 7:32 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's cheaper to drink, at least.
"I’m Joey Devine, I’m what Joba Chamberlain would be if he was good and nobody had ever heard of him."
by mikev on Jul 7, 2009 7:48 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
There's ALWAYS available parking in the Coliseum BART lot, and it's free.
It’s a 4-5 minute walk to the stadium from there. It’s easier to get out of the BART lot than from the Coliseum lot.
Boo-freakin-hoo, guys.
The city’s got much bigger things to deal with right now. If this helps them get their house in order, so be it.
by cityplANner on Jul 7, 2009 8:01 PM PDT reply actions 1 recs
No doubt.
But if they hike the A’s parking, the Raiders parking will be what? $20 bucks? A-holes!
by lynnzgal on Jul 7, 2009 8:25 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
At least $20 a game for an eight-game home season is easier to accept than $17 a game...
…for many more baseball games.
Last of the Ninth - Photography Site / jamesvenes.com - Blog
by Flashfire on Jul 7, 2009 8:32 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
When you're counting every penny, no. It doesn't.
Plus! Parking isn’t free at BART for the Raider games. Its whatever the going rate is.
by lynnzgal on Jul 7, 2009 9:10 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wasn't Raiders parking already 20 bucks?
With this tax it’ll be minimum 22 dollars now.
by athletics68 on Jul 8, 2009 7:39 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Quick reminder for folks who think a salary cap would make things more affordble
It wouldn’t.
1. The team/league will pay their players as little as they can possibly get away with.
2. The team/league will charge fans as much as they can possibly get away with.
1 & 2 are independent of each other.
"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s
by Nick on Jul 8, 2009 8:45 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oakport Street, at 66th Ave.
down near the San Leandro Bay. You can park along Oakport St, thought the sight of numerous piles of broken auto glass is a bit arresting. There is a lot on the corner, but it has been aggressively cordoned off to prevent free parking.
It takes about fifteen minutes to walk from there to the stadium proper. I did it for the last day game vs. Detroit before the A’s went on the road.
Maybe 20-30 other cars there too when I left.
"It is the mark of a truly intelligent person to be moved by statistics. " GB Shaw
by One won lost won on Jul 7, 2009 9:50 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
I park for free
near the hotels on the south side of the Coliseum. (I think that’s the Hegenberger exit?)
It’s a 10-15 minute walk past a gas station & a Denny’s (and the overflow lot?), and I’ve never had a problem.
by streetfan on Jul 7, 2009 9:56 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Why should we transfer wealth and reward people who destroy the enviroment by driving?
Automobile travel is subsidized heavily by society and your complaining about 2 dollars more for parking? BART is the easiest thing on the planet to use. Its cheap (well not as cheap as it use to be) and convenient. Stop complaining about paying for the privilege of driving.
Also you complain about Oakland kicking A’s fans down… HELLO its Alemeda County thats doing it.
In play, run(s)! Talk dirty to me gamecast, talk dirty. - Nevermoor on FK
by designatedforassignment on Jul 7, 2009 11:33 PM PDT reply actions 1 recs
How is Alameda Co doing it?
Oakland is the entity that wants to initiate collecting the tax, not Alameda Co. The county is actually suing Oakland to stop this madness.
And as for BART being cheap, not so much with the latest fare increases. And it’s not that reliable either. Last time I tried to take it to the Oakland Airport a train in front of mine caught fire shutting the whole system down south of San Leandro.
by athletics68 on Jul 8, 2009 7:42 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Your right I misread it. I thought the County was suing requiring enforcement
A big my bad.
In play, run(s)! Talk dirty to me gamecast, talk dirty. - Nevermoor on FK
by designatedforassignment on Jul 8, 2009 8:25 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
btw catestrophic fire is probably more likely to happen to your car or someone elses on the freeway than on bart
I think it costs me like 10 bucks to get to the game on bart from the city. 3 dollar bridge toll plus gas forgetaboutit its way cheaper even if you didn’t consider the cost of parking.
In play, run(s)! Talk dirty to me gamecast, talk dirty. - Nevermoor on FK
by designatedforassignment on Jul 8, 2009 8:30 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
The only way parking at the game becomes a real advantage that I can see:
- you’re not really close to BART, which doesn’t really make sense considering where the Coliseum is. Hell, if I wanted to now I could drive into Pittsburg or something like that and take BART to and from the game from there.
- you’re going with a group and it’s cheaper than each person having a BART ticket.
For me, paying $4 or so for a round-trip ticket when I lived three stops away beat the hell out of $15 to drive and park there.
Last of the Ninth - Photography Site / jamesvenes.com - Blog
by Flashfire on Jul 8, 2009 8:42 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I endorse this statement
Signed
DFA
In play, run(s)! Talk dirty to me gamecast, talk dirty. - Nevermoor on FK
by designatedforassignment on Jul 8, 2009 9:48 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
It all depends on location.
For someone coming from SJ with two or more in the car, driving is always cheaper.
by athletics68 on Jul 8, 2009 11:57 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Also, when you take BART, it's ok to drink
I’m assuming that no-one on here drinks and drives, right?
by bobnothing on Jul 8, 2009 12:02 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
food and drink aren't *technically* allowed on BART
but it’s really easy to ignore that rule.
Caltrain allows food and drink, and boy do Giants fans get tanked on the ride up to Phone Book Park on the weekends.
by cityplANner on Jul 8, 2009 12:18 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
South Bay
I’m 25 minutes or so from Fremont and by the time I make it there I’m already through one of the two freeway bottlenecks (237/880).
by throwmonkey on Jul 8, 2009 6:25 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
From the city
you’re talking maybe a gallon of gas depending on your car, in some cases much much less. Either way, you’re maybe getting the same $10 cost or less to drive (assuming you don’t pay for parking).
CuttheMullet, from "The Thread":
"Whenever I’m about to do something, I think "would an idiot do that?" and if they would, I do not do that thing."
by DMOAS on Jul 8, 2009 10:56 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
You know what. DFA ?
BART may be the easiest form of transportaion, if you are albe-bodied. Not everyone is capable of walking across that bridge and the wheelchairs are not always accessible. It’s great to be strong and fit, but what if you can barely make it from your car to your seat? Not everyone who has physical ailments qualify for a disabled parking sticker.
What I don’t like is changing the rates mid-season. As a seasonticket holder, I am fortunate enough to be able to parlay my tickets into parking passes. I don’t feel it as much because my seats are fully paid by Opening Day. But, if I was unable to purchase season tickets, but still tried to commit to going to as many as the homestand games as possible and was unable to negotiate the BART system, going from $15 to $17 would affect my budget.
Thank you English Major for mentioning that the BART escalator is not always on. After the third time, I just decided to ignore the BART related dents as well as the almost successful attempt to break into my rear passenger window while my car was parked in the BART parking lot.
But what really grinds my grits, is there is no lead time? The increase is effective immediately. Way to show appreciation to the ciyt’s fan base.
On another note, did anyone know that parking meters in Oakland were extended to 8:00 p.m.?
"We get two outs, and I was sure, and I had a plan, and I shook Tek off," Schilling said. "And I get a big 'What if?' for the rest of my life."
by Imaseasonticketholder on Jul 8, 2009 7:50 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree
There should be either free, (not a chance) or discount parking for people with a handicap sticker.
I am also a season ticket holder so this will not affect me THIS YEAR. Next year is another story. I have had season tickets since 92’ and have had to deal with allot of crap of this sort, (it is twice as bad as I am a season ticket holder for the Raiders also).
PREPAREDNESS_Because those goddamn zombies aren’t going to kill themselves
by adragon on Jul 8, 2009 8:36 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ive taken a 80 yo to A's games on BART in a wheelchair, worked just fine (SSS)
Why does the lead time matter? You go to a restaurant and the menu doesn’t say “all prices will increase the next time you try to eat here.” I think that the expectation that raising the costs on people (drivers) that are forcing society to pay their societal costs for their convenience and should wait until its more convenient in this time of unprecedented budget shortfalls is selfish. They should raise the rates on meters and parking now to alleviate the loss in revenue to crucial services.
In play, run(s)! Talk dirty to me gamecast, talk dirty. - Nevermoor on FK
by designatedforassignment on Jul 8, 2009 8:38 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree with this
One of my favourite things about AT+T park is that they have free bark parking, and they promote it, too.
It’d be nice if the A’s did likewise
by bobnothing on Jul 8, 2009 12:04 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
bark?
In play, run(s)! Talk dirty to me gamecast, talk dirty. - Nevermoor on FK
by designatedforassignment on Jul 9, 2009 3:12 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Good point on the accessibility issue
Though they do have golf carts for people to get rides on.
Last of the Ninth - Photography Site / jamesvenes.com - Blog
by Flashfire on Jul 8, 2009 8:43 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
the city's got an $81 million deficit to deal with
Parking spaces are essentially free real estate the city is giving away. Market forces should allow for pricing on parking that the market will bear.
by cityplANner on Jul 8, 2009 12:20 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Exactly, if you can afford to go to an A's game and drive you can afford to help the city out.
In play, run(s)! Talk dirty to me gamecast, talk dirty. - Nevermoor on FK
by designatedforassignment on Jul 9, 2009 3:12 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Because I can't bring my gigantic ass BBQ on BART
and I need the parking spaces that you vacate by taking BART, anyway.
"I’m Joey Devine, I’m what Joba Chamberlain would be if he was good and nobody had ever heard of him."
by mikev on Jul 8, 2009 9:13 AM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
Which is fine
you should just be prepared to pay for it.
In play, run(s)! Talk dirty to me gamecast, talk dirty. - Nevermoor on FK
by designatedforassignment on Jul 8, 2009 9:49 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm already paying $2 more!
"I’m Joey Devine, I’m what Joba Chamberlain would be if he was good and nobody had ever heard of him."
by mikev on Jul 8, 2009 10:03 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Why is BART so "cheap"? It's subsidized by taxpayers.
If it had to be 100% self-supporting fares would be through the roof and nobody would be able to afford to use it.
Back then, my idol was Bugs Bunny, because I saw a cartoon of him playing ball - you know, the one where he plays every position himself with nobody else on the field but him? Now that I think of it, Bugs is still my idol. You have to love a ballplayer like that.
~Nomar Garciaparra
by UncleLeo on Jul 8, 2009 10:57 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well said
Public transit is far more subsidized than driving.
by athletics68 on Jul 8, 2009 11:59 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Driving *is* very subsidised
When taxpayers have to pay for things like new roads, pollution cleanups, disposing of old cars, the financial bailout of car companies, cleaning up accidents, the health costs of sulpher dioxide in the air, the costs of global warming, etc, etc, etc.
by bobnothing on Jul 8, 2009 12:06 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
gas is far more expensive in europe because it pays for the maintenance of roads
That isn’t the case in the US. Driving in the US is one of the most subsidized things you can do in this country.
by cityplANner on Jul 8, 2009 12:27 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
You're telling me you consider our roads "maintained"
Plus your subsidization equation neglects the fact we pay taxes for the roads, tolls for many roads and bridges, taxes on gas, taxes on buying the cars, registration fees, etc… All of which should be more than enough to pay for the poorly maintained roads we all drive on. Just because our state government is inept at money management doesn’t mean that driving is “the most subsidized thing” we do in this country.
by athletics68 on Jul 8, 2009 12:54 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, no, I don't
but the taxes charged on car drivers are not as much as they cost the country. hence, they are subsidized. whether you think it should be the case or not is immaterial
by bobnothing on Jul 8, 2009 1:19 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
those taxes hardly pay their way
And yes, believe it or not, the roads are fairly well maintained. Are there problem areas, absolutely. But you can get where you need to go.
CuttheMullet, from "The Thread":
"Whenever I’m about to do something, I think "would an idiot do that?" and if they would, I do not do that thing."
by DMOAS on Jul 8, 2009 1:56 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
And it's quite necessary
Giant country, requires the ability to be traveled in order to ship the various consumer products, etc. across it. Not getting into the need for utilities and safety vehicles to get to places that, you know, help. The better maintained the roads are, the faster they can get to where they need to be, the less pollution, the more lives, etc. saved.
CuttheMullet, from "The Thread":
"Whenever I’m about to do something, I think "would an idiot do that?" and if they would, I do not do that thing."
by DMOAS on Jul 8, 2009 1:54 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
And, the real reason the roads were updated...
due to
and the threat of
Oh, and in case of an invasion on US soil, we could mobilize faster with
by LoneStranger on Jul 8, 2009 3:13 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Indeed
And technically those reasons still exist. While it may seem like roads are a convenience feature, they’re also continue to have national security applications.
by athletics68 on Jul 8, 2009 3:42 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
That they do.
Plus, our roads are critical to our overall economy. Everybody’s standard of living is dependent on our road system.
Gas taxes and the such may not pay for roads in a direct dollar-for-dollar aspect, but they give back far more than meets the eye at a casual glance.
In 2008 I was watching a team that was rebuilding. In 2009 I feel like I'm watching a team that just sucks.
by UncleLeo on Jul 8, 2009 5:58 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Rail travel and transport is important to the economy, too
If roads should be subsidized, then rail and other forms of transit should be, too.
"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s
by Nick on Jul 8, 2009 7:19 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not nearly as important as it used to be.
In 2008 I was watching a team that was rebuilding. In 2009 I feel like I'm watching a team that just sucks.
by UncleLeo on Jul 8, 2009 7:51 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Obviously
But that’s also partly the result of massive subsidies given road-travel.
"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s
by Nick on Jul 9, 2009 5:38 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
But rail only allows transit via special vehicles,
whereas roads can be used by cars of all types, bikes, carts, walkers and are cheaper and easier to build in something other than one general direction. I imagine that a four way stop for rail would be a worse traffic jam.
by LoneStranger on Jul 9, 2009 8:23 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Try riding a bike or walking on I-5 doesn't work.
In play, run(s)! Talk dirty to me gamecast, talk dirty. - Nevermoor on FK
by designatedforassignment on Jul 9, 2009 3:16 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Trucks go everywhere. Rail does not.
I’d prefer that rail be used more often, but the realities of distribution preclude it.
In 2008 I was watching a team that was rebuilding. In 2009 I feel like I'm watching a team that just sucks.
by UncleLeo on Jul 9, 2009 6:25 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Again, largely because of what society has chosen to invest in
since WWII.
I grew up in Berkeley. Long before I was born, the Key System used to have trains up and down Sacramento, San Pablo, Telegraph, and College. You could hop a train on Euclid above campus and end up in the City just with a transfer or two, all on the same system. The communities of the East Bay lost something incredibly valuable when the tracks were torn up.
I’m not saying interstates are useless. But cars and trucks aren’t any more natural than trains. Both outcomes depend on societal choices.
"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s
by Nick on Jul 9, 2009 7:34 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
No doubt, but...
…as America became “suburbanized”, and destinations became more spread out, trains weren’t practically able to keep up. Some of it by choice, sure, but some from geography also.
People like to point to Europe and Japan, but those places are generally much smaller also.
Even in our own country rail transit systems are relatively successful only in relatively tightly compacted metropolitan centers, i.e. NE corridor, etc.
In 2008 I was watching a team that was rebuilding. In 2009 I feel like I'm watching a team that just sucks.
by UncleLeo on Jul 10, 2009 8:50 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Exactly, rail moves a ton of freight and is much safer than car travel.
In play, run(s)! Talk dirty to me gamecast, talk dirty. - Nevermoor on FK
by designatedforassignment on Jul 9, 2009 3:15 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Taxes for almost everything are much higher in Europe...
…to subsidize all the “free” stuff they get. It’s not really a fair comparison as Europeans and Americans have vastly differing mindsets on how much they’re willing to pay and be taxed and for what.
In 2008 I was watching a team that was rebuilding. In 2009 I feel like I'm watching a team that just sucks.
by UncleLeo on Jul 8, 2009 5:54 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I endorse this statement
Signed
DFA
In play, run(s)! Talk dirty to me gamecast, talk dirty. - Nevermoor on FK
by designatedforassignment on Jul 9, 2009 3:13 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Want a free hug?
In play, run(s)! Talk dirty to me gamecast, talk dirty. - Nevermoor on FK
by designatedforassignment on Jul 9, 2009 3:16 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
get a room you two
You have to include smiley faces - Poppy
;- ) :- ) :-O : -> : -] : -}
by micdog2001 on Jul 10, 2009 3:37 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
What's sad is for my family of five
Parking is still cheaper than taking BART. (6.40*5= 32$ v. 17$ and $6 gas)
UGH.
by jeffro on Jul 8, 2009 8:48 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Carpooling is good
Plus viewing parking as a free good just encourages folks to treat it like an infinite good.
by MobiusKlein on Jul 8, 2009 3:41 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Too bad
they don’t discount car pooling vehicles like they do for some bridges. Say 3 or more in, cut $5 off.
CuttheMullet, from "The Thread":
"Whenever I’m about to do something, I think "would an idiot do that?" and if they would, I do not do that thing."
by DMOAS on Jul 8, 2009 3:54 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I would totally support that.
In play, run(s)! Talk dirty to me gamecast, talk dirty. - Nevermoor on FK
by designatedforassignment on Jul 9, 2009 3:17 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Become a season ticket holder..
All of this talk got me interested in the perks of being a season ticket holder. In looking at the A’s Season Ticket Policy and Procedure page A’s STH’s can purchase parking for $9. http://oakland.athletics.mlb.com/oak/ticketing/ticket_services.jsp
I know that a lot people can’t afford or don’t have enough time to be STH but if I am looking at the available packages correctly they have a “Hit and Run” package that consists of approx 12 games (only 4 now, prorated). With the “Advanced ticket exchange policy” you can return all 4 games and exchange them for 4 tickets to one game or 4 different games of your choice. It says you cannot exch into premium or firework games but if your real fan you can find a game to go to (Rickey Henderson day maybe).
Can someone who is a Season Ticket Holder confirm that I am interpreting this correctly? If so, if you’re planning on attending at least a few games a year the parking savings alone may be worth it.
by Where my pitches at? on Jul 8, 2009 9:13 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
It's the main reason I get a small package every year.
Even if you find a situation where the rules dont allow trading certain tickets at times now there still very helpful and will find some deal for you.
by Athletix Man on Jul 8, 2009 11:51 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yup you are right
That’s why I get the Fielder’s Choice Plan. You get very good service from the A’s, get to choose your seats to games, and you get discounts for merchandise and parking. It’s a good deal if you go to about 20 games a year. Also, Playoff rights (hahaha)!
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by ballin on Jul 9, 2009 1:17 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Free Overflow Parking
During the good old days of the Haas family ownership, overflow parking across 880 was not only free, the A’s had security and a gated lot where Zhone is now. Only a few years ago, the remaining dirt areas across 880 were free.
Current ownership does not understand that the easier that you make it to attend games, the more games people will attend. In addition, the lost parking revenue will be spent on souvenirs and food. In the long run, giving something away like overflow parking to attract additional fans to the game would be more profitable. Just ask the marketers in Las Vegas.
by Howzer on Jul 8, 2009 10:20 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
The premise of Overflow parking....
is that the stadium lots are full. Based on this years attendance I don’t see the lots ever filling up thus eliminating the need for overflow parking.
Why would ownership pay to have people watch lots across the freeway when there aren’t even enough cars to fill the lots that they do pay people to watch?
by Where my pitches at? on Jul 8, 2009 10:40 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Indeed
And if this latest mess is any indication it’s not the ownership raising your parking rates… it’s the city.
That said at least the Coliseum is still far cheaper than even the cheapest lots near Pac Bell.
by athletics68 on Jul 8, 2009 12:01 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Curse you all and your logic and facts
I want my $2!!
Logical but still frustrating is my take.
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by micdog2001 on Jul 8, 2009 1:08 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
That's two hotdogs on Dollar Dog Wednesday!
by LoneStranger on Jul 8, 2009 1:10 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
or like 3 swigs of a beer.
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by mikev on Jul 8, 2009 1:59 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I always take overly huge swigs.
"I’m Joey Devine, I’m what Joba Chamberlain would be if he was good and nobody had ever heard of him."
by mikev on Jul 8, 2009 2:43 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
How to park for FREE at the Oakland Coliseum (in Lot C)
I probably should not be telling people about this but there is a way to park for free in the Coliseum’s parking lot, lot C to be exact. It is so ridiculous that they are charging us $17, when the Angels and Dodgers now charge less than half of that.
Lot C is where all the part-time employees of the A’s (ushers, etc) and Aramark employees park. The employee entrance to Lot C is located along Coliseum Way just south of the Arena and the Gate G entrance. Up until about an hour before the game the employee entrance is open and has a guard guarding the entrance. However, these “guards” do not do their jobs very well. They are usually kids in their late teens or very indifferent older adults. If you drive by them quickly only showing them a credit card, or copy card (or any card for that matter) they will not care. In fact, they are so indifferent, that I don’t think they would care if you rolled right by them and ignored them. One hour before the game this gate closes.
Even if the guard tries to stop you and for a credential, you can always act stupid and tell them that you thought that this was an official entrance. If all else fails, there’s always the BART lot.
by uci anteater on Jul 8, 2009 10:41 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Whatever people think about the cost of parking at the Coliseum...
…I really don’t think this is something that ought to be encouraged.
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by Flashfire on Jul 8, 2009 10:54 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
A couple folks have flagged this comment and suggested it should be deleted
Rather than delete it after it’s been up a while (deleting comments is a dicey practice anyway), let me just say, “officially,” on behalf of AN, that this kind of dishonesty is not something we would encourage, nor is the posting of comments suggesting how fans can cheat, and trick employees.
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by Nico on Jul 9, 2009 8:53 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
and if everybody does it then soon nobody can do it...
the unofficial non-AN endorsed moral of the story is:
Keep your shysty shit to yourself, because not only is it bad form, but you’ll ruin it for your own shysty self too!
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by Gaijin_Suketto on Jul 9, 2009 5:40 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Herein lies the core of my pissivity
Since I became a seasonticket holder for both the Raiders & A’s, it has become clear that neither the City of Oakland nor Alameda Count gives a rat’s ass about the loyal fans of these franchises. Jerry Brown was able to deter any hopes of a ballpark in Oakland and yes there are shenanigans between the Raiders & Alameda Count & Oakland that we may never know about. Re the Raiders, since the Raiders took over ticket sales I know for at least thelast two years, 6 out of 8 games have beeen announced sell-outs. Only the really suckitude games did not sell out. Please, do not make this a diatribe Raider hating, political thread as that is not my point..
My point is that now the faithful fans of the A’s & Raiders are paid attention to now as they are now viewed as a money stream.Both of these franchises have not been at the top of the game. the A;s are struggling with attendance and the Raiders are finally selling out even with an abysmal team.
Is this the time to put the screws to the remaining fans? I know some of you are wealthy and therefore $17 does not mean anything to you.But,if I had to budget $17 per game for a homestand because I am unable to take BART, that would give me pause.
Getting back to the BART, it is not always possible to get a wheelchaire and/or a cart.
PLUS, it takes like 30-45 minutes to get the heck out of the parking lot after the game. And that’s if you’re lucky.
"We get two outs, and I was sure, and I had a plan, and I shook Tek off," Schilling said. "And I get a big 'What if?' for the rest of my life."
by Imaseasonticketholder on Jul 8, 2009 11:27 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
I'm with you on that
Coming from the North Bay, Bart really isn’t a very viable option and between increased ticket prices and parking, it’s just not worth it, particularly when you show up and the team plays with lackluster. The only I disagree with is getting out of the lot, without leaving early, most games I can just roll on out.
CuttheMullet, from "The Thread":
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by DMOAS on Jul 9, 2009 12:47 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Then you should be willing to pay for parking increases
If you choose not to take the option that has the higher marginal benefit to society, you should be willing to pay the difference between the marginal cost to society and the marginal private benefit… in this case its $2.
In play, run(s)! Talk dirty to me gamecast, talk dirty. - Nevermoor on FK
by designatedforassignment on Jul 9, 2009 3:21 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
With BART on strike next week
There really won’t be any other option however, marginal benefit or not.
by athletics68 on Jul 9, 2009 3:52 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Are you serious?
If so, all I can say is “Wow”. Just wow.
"You may glory in a team triumphant, but you fall in love with a team in defeat."--The Boys of Summer
by alox on Jul 9, 2009 4:35 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well serious in that if there is a BART strike no one will be using it...
by athletics68 on Jul 9, 2009 6:53 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
True enough I suppose.
Public employee unions…..
On second thought, I guess it worked out well for GM. I suppose the UAW is now a public employee union too.
"You may glory in a team triumphant, but you fall in love with a team in defeat."--The Boys of Summer
by alox on Jul 9, 2009 7:00 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Doesn't seem like BART will be a problem until next week, at the earliest, and possibly not even then.
BART is expected to provide normal train service for its customers today, Friday, July 10. The leadership of BART’s two largest unions, SEIU and ATU, is taking the District’s latest proposal to save $100 million in labor costs to their membership for a vote next week. Contracts expired at midnight but workers are expected to work without a contract for the time being.
by LoneStranger on Jul 10, 2009 8:50 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
DMOAS -- Why not hop on BART at El Cerrito?
The meaning of life is not so much 'found,' as it is 'made.' --Opus
by The Dogfather on Jul 10, 2009 9:11 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
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