Parking meters within the Lincoln and Monroe Street construction zone in downtown Spokane are now free after 5 p.m.

The new policy, designed to encourage people to come downtown and patronize businesses struggling to cope with the ripped up streets, affects about 50 parking meters. Each is marked with a blue sign announcing the change.

“We want to show our support for the businesses,” said Director of Neighborhood and Business Services Jonathan Mallahan. “We’re going to try this out.”

The free parking after 5 p.m. will continue until construction wraps up for the winter.