(La Porte, IN) - A downtown parking study is being worked on for the City of La Porte.

According to the mayor’s office, the city is partnering with a private firm on how to improve parking. Citizens are also invited to a meeting to share their thoughts on what should be done.

The city’s Community Development and Planning Director Craig Phillips said the study is the first step toward solving a longstanding problem.

"We have consistently heard from residents about the parking struggles in our downtown," Phillips said. "We are well aware of this problem and are preparing to take action."

The study will make recommendations regarding what should be done to improve parking in both the short and long term and where additional parking spots can be found.

The meeting is scheduled for Thursday, April 21 at 6 p.m. at La Porte City Hall.