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City working to figure out parking logistics for multiple downtown events

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The city is working to figure out how to handle parking when there are multiple games downtown.

Jacksonville Suns General Manager Chris Peters said they moved their game from next Friday to help the city.

"They aren't fans of a double-header but (are) willing to do it," said Peters, talking about the players.

The city's chief administrative officer said the city is trying to figure out how to fix the problem.

"If there is ever more then two events, we need to figure out how to coordinate transportation pieces," said Karen Bowling, the city's chief administrative officer.

It's costing taxpayers. Right now, 50 cents of every Suns ticket goes back to the taxpayers. So if fewer people go to the game, less money goes back to the city. Based on the deal to move the Suns game to Thursday, the team won't have to pay $15,000 in rent for an entire month.

Action News asked Bowling if it would keep Jacksonville from being a sports- and event-friendly city.

"No. We have enough smart people to get together to find a solution," said Bowling.

The city said it's looking at transportation options with shuttles, the water taxi and area parking garages. There is also a conflict Aug. 28.