It could soon cost a lot more to park downtown.

City leaders are considering raising parking meter rates to make them comparable to rates charged by parking garages.

The city said the increase would deter congestion in Center City streets.

City officials hope to discourage people from circling the block looking for a metered spot.

It costs a dollar an hour to park in a metered spot, at least 10 times more than parking in a lot.

"Lots aren't always convenient," said Andrea Grier, of Queen Village. "If you're running in or out, why would you go in a lot? Twenty minutes costs $5. It's ridiculous."

City officials hope the rise in price would discourage people from parking at two-hour meters and feeding it throughout the day.

Dave Rudnick of Glenside prefers to park in metered spaces.

"It's $28 to $36 for a parking lot," Rudnick said. "If I'm going to be here all day, I can get a ticket, and at $26, it's cheaper than a garage."

The city said less congestion would make it easier for people who walk, bike or rollerblade around Center City.

Steve Mailme of Dresher said he drove around for 20 minutes on Friday looking for a metered parking space.

He tries to avoid parking garages.

"It's too expensive, your car gets dinged, you don't know how they're taking care of your car," Mailme said.

A parking meter rate hike would have to be approved by City Council.