HARTFORD, Conn. (WTIC Radio) - Parking rates in downtown Hartford are doubling effective August 5, the Hartford Parking Authority announced Monday.On-street metered parking rates will increase from $1 to $2 an hour in the authority's new Downtown Central Zone. The zone covers 480 spaces on 16 streets from Ann Uccello Street to Prospect Street to the east and from Church Street to Wells Street to the south."Once complete and operational, the new zone will support both the downtown merchant base and a strong plan that meets the City’s needs for parking spaces and revenues for the next decade and beyond," said a statement from the parking authority.Officials say the objective of the change is to promote the availability of on-street parking and reduce traffic congestion in the downtown area by reducing the number of double-parked vehicles and those circling, looking for a space.The parking rate on fringe streets surrounding the Downtown Central Zone will remain at $1 per hour.