Following an overwhelming expression of opposition from fans, the Asheville Tourists have dropped a plan to charge $3 for parking near McCormick Field.

Palace Baseball executive director Mike Bauer made the announcement of the teams’ withdrawal of the request this past Saturday.

City Council had been expected to make a decision this past Tuesday on the request to charge fees for parking spots in front of McCormick Field along McCormick Place, which is the street that runs up the hill near the ballpark. The area also would have included the parking lot and grassy area adjacent to Memorial Stadium.

Instead, the team will continue to offer free parking, Bauer said, noting that Tourists officials fielded about 20 to 25 telephone calls from objecting fans.