NORTH ADAMS, Mass. – The city of North Adams is extending the courtesy of free parking for shoppers during the holiday effective Thursday, Saturday, Dec. 1.

Parking in the downtown area (excluding long-term meters) will be free to the general public until Dec. 31.

Merchants need to be aware that this is for the convenience of their customers and long-term parking in these "free" areas by merchants, could result in the receipt of a violation notice. Additionally, while parking is free, it is still limited to the one or two hours posted on the meters.

"The city is blessed to have a wide variety of restaurants, retail stores, salons and service oriented businesses," said Mayor Richard Alcombright. "These businesses not only bring life to our downtown but also provide jobs and very unique shopping options for our residents. I am hoping that this small gesture of free parking will help to encourage folks to shop locally whenever possible."

Start date updated because the editor apparently can't read a calendar.