Libertyville starts commuter lot parking pay stations

New equipment to make paying easier for rail commuters was put into operation Tuesday at the two Libertyville stations at Prairie Crossing.

The new equipment, which replaced two mail box-type pay stations, can accept credit cards and also allows commuters to pay by cellphone.

Commuters can register at www.parkmobile.com and download a free application, an option used by three people Tuesday morning.

The village approved a $63,000 contract this spring for the equipment, its installation and training. The intent is to make the lots friendlier, while easing maintenance and improving collection and enforcement.

Libertyville owns and maintains both lots that serve the North Central and Milwaukee North stations near Route 137.

About 220 vehicles use the lot in a given day, village officials estimate.