Photo by Here in Van Nuys via Flickr

The Getty made an announcement yesterday that is disappointing some: hours are dropping back and parking fees are raising starting next Tuesday. This means tonight is the last Friday night you can enjoy the Getty until 9:00 p.m. as it will drop to its new time of 5:30 p.m. next week. Additionally, all other days except Saturdays, which will remain with its 9:00 p.m. closing time, will close a half hour earlier than usual at 5:30 p.m.

Is this another story of cutting back on culture? Not according to the Getty's statement that says this is about streamlining operations. "The new hours reflect peak attendance for the Getty Center, and represent a savings in cost and energy, without severely affecting visitors," it reads. "The changes are part of the Getty’s strategic planning process begun earlier in the year in an effort to streamline the Getty’s operations."

And while admission at both the Getty Villa and Getty Center are still free, parking is going up two dollars to $10. Hours at the Villa have not been changed.