Parking Spaces: There's An App For That

Hollywood - Tired of looking for a parking space here in the Los Angeles area? Well, there's an app for that... in its test phase anyway. Here's how it works.

The app, called Parker, is being tested in in Hollywood. Specifically, it has been implemented on 286 metered parking spaces along Hollywood Boulevard between Vine and La Brea. Each of those is now fitted with sensors to report parking status.

The sensors transmit a signal to receivers mounted on street lights. The information goes to a server in Texas, and then to your iPhone... all in about 2 minutes.

Along with giving directions, Parker tells you if the meter takes credit cards. It just doesn't absolutely guarantee you'll get the spot.

An iPhone app's cool but the Los Angeles Transportation Department has plans to integrate the project with car navigation systems, too.

It'll cost you about two bucks... for now. There's an Android version coming, and the city will be bringing more areas online soon.