my 1997 BMW 328i will not shift from park

May be your key cylinder in the ignition is wearing out. It won't shift if doesn't trigger a switch. I think there is a release pin under the plate around the shift lever gear indicator to over ride it.

Another thought is the spring that puts tension on the shift lever button may be wore out. Though the brake light switch is a common failure issue to trigger this. It's worth replacing that first since it isn't very expensive.

Same problem with my 1987 325i and really wondering between the key ignition / lock system issues and the shifter spring idea. Thanks!