Parking in Vancouver: Council to consider pollution surcharges in climate plan
CTV
Vancouver drivers may soon be paying a lot more, as a controversial proposal to increase parking fees is set to go before city council Tuesday.
Vancouver drivers may soon be paying a lot more, as a controversial proposal to increase parking fees is set to go before city council Tuesday.
The "Climate Emergency Parking Program" recommends requiring overnight parking permits on all residential streets across the city between midnight and 7 a.m.
The program aims to address climate change, but is raising concerns about affordability in what’s already been dubbed the most expensive city in Canada.
“I think this proposal is fundamentally flawed, and it fails, it worsens affordability, it really fails from an equity perspective and it doesn't take into account the input of residents and we've heard overwhelmingly that people are opposed to this plan,” said Coun. Sarah Kirby-Yung.
The new permit would cost $43.29 a year, before taxes, or $5 for low-income households. Overnight visitors would also be charged $3 per night.
“It feels like it's a war in the working class on people that don't have the access to a driveway or off street parking or own a strata condo for example,” said Kirby-Yung.
A report from the city’s engineering services also recommends adopting a new overnight permit pollution surcharge.
