AUSTIN, Texas -- The people that make Austin's Red River Cultural District thrive are about to get some stress relief.

Next week, the City of Austin is launching a pilot program for late-night employees to use a city parking garage. Those workers often spend $10 a night to park in lots half a mile away.

Instead, they'll be able to park at Austin Water headquarters since the garage is not used after business hours. The city will charge $35 a month per space, is secured around the clock.

"Our city manager wants us to use our city assets--our garages--a little bit better," said Steve Grassfield of the Austin Transportation Department. "This solves two problems. It becomes affordable parking for employees who don't have to pay for on-street or off-street parking, and it opens up spaces on the street hopefully for customers for those businesses."

Bar and venue managers estimate more than 100 employees are already interested in the pilot program. Employees must go through their manager if they want to participate. Grassfield said that will remove any question about a person's eligibility.

"We love giving back to our staff and doing anything we can to help make life easier and to make work easier for people," Mohawk Generam Manager Cody Cowan said. "I wish we could just pay for it outright, but it is a great deal. I am really hopeful and happy for its success."

The city plans to eventually expand its program to entertainment districts throughout Downtown Austin. The monthly fee will help pay off debt from recent projects at the Waller Creek Center Garage to improve lighting and replace the entry gates.