On Wednesday, the Patriots announced the first stadium wide ticket price increase since 2008. Prior to yesterday’s announcement, the team had only raised ticket prices in certain sections the last few seasons.

The move comes on the heels of the team spending $300 million dollars on additions and renovations to Gillette Stadium.

The team did announce that parking prices would be lowered or done away with all together. The team outlined three new parking options in the announcement. Parking will be free in all general lots located across from the stadium on Route 1.

Despite the announcement of free parking, several ticket holders I spoke to are disappointed by the move. Many are disappointed that the team would raise ticket prices in economic times like these and one season ticket holder called the organization “tone deaf” for raising ticket prices right now.

The timing of the announcement isn’t ideal especially considering the fact that the team isn’t contending right now. They have missed the playoffs two of the last three years. It is a lot easier to raise ticket when the on field product is doing well.

Despite the current status of the team, the Patriots are still the biggest draw in this town so fans will ultimately pay more to see them. Even if they don’t like it.