RICHMOND, Va. (WTVR) - While fans could not complain about the atmosphere or the mild weather Thursday, there were complaints about parking as record crowds welcomed the Washington Redskins to the start of training camp in Richmond.
"I'm sure Richmond did its best but there are a lot of people here doing a lot of walking," Carlton Richards, a longtime fan, said.
Part of the reason parking is an issue is because the Bon Secours Washington Redskins Training Center is located in an urban, busy section of Richmond.
Nearby businesses and office like the Department of Motor Vehicles and Science Museum of Virginia have blocked off their lots and hired security, making sure only customers and visitors park there.
Official parking lots cost around $5, but are about a 15-minute walk to the site. Shuttles are offered but many fans chose to walk, which is why some recommended to CBS 6 wheeled coolers.
Richmond Mayor Dwight Jones brushed off the concern over parking. He said it should not take away from Redskins fans enjoyment.
"Anybody can find something wrong with anything, but there is nothing that can take away from the euphoria of thousands of people out there," Jones said.
Some businesses are taking advantage of the parking issues by offering services to fans. In fact, taxis are offering free rides in exchange for tips.
Some bike companies, like Service 4, are offering $5 rides from busy lots to the entrance of camp.
Additionally, some businesses, like Advanced Office Systems, have turned their parking lot into fan parking, charging $10.
Overall, Redskins fans said the little inconvenience is worth it in the end -- with perhaps Carlton Richards offering the best advice of all.
"I promised my wife a day at Roanoke Rapids Casino if she dropped me off," Richards said.
Stay with CBS 6 News and WTVR.com for the most complete coverage of the Redskins in Richmond.
