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Apps Claim To Make Boston's 'Horrific' Parking Situation Easier

BOSTON (CBS) -- For some, describing parking in Boston is easy: "Horrific," says one Boston driver.

Then there's the more mythical approach.

"Parking spots are like unicorns. You hear about them, but you don't see too many of 'em," says another driver with a big laugh.

But now, if you're looking to secure a spot in a Boston-area garage or a parking lot, you can get help from your phone.

"We have a massive amount of availability in the Boston area," says David Bloom of ParkWhiz.

Apps like ParkWhiz and Spot Hero let customers reserve a parking space hours or days in advance.  Bloom says ParkWhiz is great for anything from sporting events to meetings and beyond.

"Whether you're going to a show in the theater district or  just need to find a space if you're running late to work," he said.

Drivers can book the parking spot right on the app. The app is free but drivers still need to pay for parking.

"Then you will get a QR code sent to your mobile phone which will be validated at the garage that will show to the attendant on site. You can cancel all the way up to the time of your booking," says Bloom.

ParkWhiz tells us  not only can they guarantee parking but sometimes they can save drivers money too.

"What we do when we work with our parking partners, is we are trying to drive down the costs," explains Bloom.

But for some drivers peace of mind may be worth any price.

"Sometimes the stress of trying to find a spot is worth the money for you pay for the parking," says one driver we spoke with on her way back to the parking garage.

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