If you live in Vancouver’s West End and own a vehicle, you may be in for a surprise.
West End residents looking to buy a new parking permit will pay $280 more for an annual parking permit starting Sep. 1, part of the city’s parking strategy developed as a response to a lack of on-street parking.
The permit’s new price will be $360 per year, instead of the usual $77.90.
The city says the new fee will only apply to new permit holders, or to those whose permit has lapsed by more than 90 days. Those with valid permits or low-income households will be exempt of the hike.
The city says the increase will help by encouraging people to park in their buildings and hence making more spaces available.
WATCH: Vancouver taking away free parking in west end
But one resident says the change makes no sense. Edna Julien says most people have nowhere else to park.
“You know, along with that increase, there’s nothing coming along with that. Nothing. You know there’s no security, there’s no guarantee that you will get a good spot, there’s nothing. You know your car is just there.”
She says it’s ridiculous that just a block away, permit prices are staying the same.
She hopes her rate will be respected, but says it’s still unfair for those just moving in.
“It’s really upsetting that anyone moving into this neighborhood should have to pay that much to park. Especially when for that money, you know you’re not getting a secured parking spot.”
She says the city’s suggestion to park inside their buildings doesn’t apply to most residents.
According to the city, the 362 per cent increase will make people park inside their buildings, reducing emissions and possible accidents from having people drive around.
It says the money from the new rate will be re-invested in the community.
The city’s website says it takes residents more than one kilometer of extra driving to find a spot, and almost three kilometers for visitors.