The state currently leases 1,000 spaces for $545,700 annually, Cook said, and is examining whether it would be possible to lower the number of spaces during off-peak times when the General Assembly is recessed. The area impacted is accessible for state employees through a gate with a government badge.

In the midst of the legislature's annual 90-day session, the lot is often crammed with cars as people come for hearings, rallies and press conferences. "We are taking a look at being able to have flexibility," Cook said. "During session, the requirement for spaces is higher."The discussions are another example of how the state has been trying to save money in sums large and small.

Financial policy has been one of the most tempestuous parts of Gov. Martin O'Malley's term, as the state budget is continually faced with billions in projected deficits. State agencies have dealt with hundreds of millions of dollars in reductions as a consequence.

Stadium parking has been in the cross hairs before - the state Board of Public Works decided in November to save more than $53,000 by paying for fewer buses to take employees from the stadium to the State House beginning this month."Everybody is looking to maximize their dollars," Cook said. "We are always looking at ways we can be more efficient. … We are always looking at ways that we can save money."The city, which runs those shuttles, could save money if the number of buses falls because fewer state employees are parking at the stadium, said Phill McGowan, a city spokesman."Hopefully it is a decent thing for the city and the state," he said.

Chet Gladchuk, the Naval Academy's athletic director, said so far he is basically only aware the state is looking to revise its lease."We have had really no conversation yet," he said. "We will have to wait and see what unfolds." Cook acknowledged the sort of flexibility the state is seeking may not be achievable. "It could very well come back that there are no options available," he said.