Today the DOT is launching a pilot program in Park Slope called "Park Smart." Drivers on parts of Seventh and Fifth Avenues will see the meter rates rise from the current $0.50 an hour to $1.50 an hour during peak hours, from noon to 4 p.m. At all other times, parking in those areas will cost $.75 an hour. The hope is that higher rates will encourage faster turnover of metered parking spots, but some motorists and retailers were ready to give their verdict before the parking could even get smart. One local tells NY1, "It's already inconvenient enough in Park Slope to find parking. It's really No Park Slope. So to make it more difficult, you know, when you do find a space, to pay more for it, I think it is a little bit obnoxious." And Crown Heights resident James Bates tells Channel 2, "Everything is costing [more]. It's not right. It's not fair." The DOT insists the program was not motivated by a need to increase revenue, and that if the Park Smart pilot is a success, other neighborhoods will lose their stupid parking.