Manhasset's commuters will see their daily park fee rise to $3 from $2 effective Monday, March 5 while at the same time finding that there is an easier way to pay the fare, according to a statement released this week by the Manhasset Park District's (MPD's) Board of Commissioners.

"The extra dollar-our first parking fee increase in six years-will pay for initiatives that weren't incorporated into the rail road station's rehabilitation project," said Commissioner Edward Winrow. He said that funds will be set aside from the higher commuter parking fee for the purchase and installation of new lights to illuminate all of the MPD's station properties. The resurfacing of the commuter lots and redesigning their layout will also be financed from the commuter revenues and, in the end, may increase the number of spaces.

"We're also instituting the sale of coupon books starting this Saturday, March 3 to reduce the need for our ticket dispensers," Commissioner Winrow added.

These coupon books, which each contain 10 daily commuter parking receipts, will sell for $30 apiece. The receipts themselves, rather than being placed inside a car's front windshield, may be affixed to a vehicle's rear-view mirror after a commuter has punched out the day/date. Comparable so-called "hang-tag" systems are already in place in Port Washington and Great Neck.

The coupon books may be purchased effective Saturday, March 3 between 8 and 11 a.m. at the MPD's main office, 62 Manhasset Avenue, Manhasset. Starting on Monday, March 5, coupon book sales will also take place at that location and continue thereafter on weekdays between 6 and 11 a.m. The MPD will also be open on Saturdays throughout the year between 8 and 11 a.m.

The commuter parking receipts may be used for a period of up to three years from the date of purchase.