ORLANDO, Fla. — 150 temporary parking spots are opening under I-4 in Orlando for both short-term and rideshare services.

The pilot program, expected to last one year, is located between West Pine Street and Central Boulevard along Garland Avenue.

City leaders say the added parking is to create an easier and more enjoyable experience for people when visiting downtown.

Musician Andrew Rich, who comes to the downtown area for work and play, has different experiences with parking depending on the time.

During the day when he’s performing on Church Street, finding a spot isn’t too complex, but during nightlife hours, parking can be a bit of a challenge.

“So painful,” Rich said. “Looking for a spot or when you just missed a spot because someone was pulling out and now you have to make four right turns and wait at two lights to get back there.”

During the lunch rush on Church Street, Rich can be heard singing with his guitar.

In front of him is an area with designated 15 minute parking, but for some, the allotted time isn’t enough.

“It’s always moving in and out,” Rich said. “There’s always people coming in to pick up food, or doing construction, or setting up these Christmas decorations.”

The drop-off lot could potentially help with that, as well as how rideshare typically operates in downtown.

“You don’t have to worry about opening your door and someone swiping it off the car or any of that dangerous stuff happening,” said Rich.

The lot under I-4 used to be used for standard parking, but the city is looking to gauge how to best use the space when the city’s under I-4 Canopy project is complete.

“This is not replacing the original design,” said a city of Orlando spokesperson. “The pilot will help provide feedback to better understand the usage of the temporary zone ahead of the permanent project design, which can be modified to meet future multimodal needs.”

The drop-off and pickup lot will launch this Friday in preparation for the Cure Bowl from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m.

It will then be open daily from 6 p.m. until 3 a.m.

Construction for The Canopy project will break ground early next year.