NEW ORLEANS - Parking on some busy New Orleans streets is about to get costlier.

In some of the busiest areas, including the French Quarter and Central Business District, costs will go from the current $1.50 an hour to $3 an hour. In other areas, the cost jumps to $2 an hour.

The hours of enforcement are being stretched, too, from the current 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Mayor Mitch Landrieu had wanted the hours extended to 10 p.m.; under a compromise announced Wednesday, enforcement will end at 7 p.m.

City Council members also have agreed to increase parking ticket fines from $20 to $30.

The new meter prices and hours take effect Jan. 11. The city says council members are to vote on the fine increases next month.