New paid parking system sparks concerns for businesses in Old Strathcona
CBC
Some businesses are concerned that the City of Edmonton's changes to the parking system at the Old Strathcona Farmers' Market (OSFM) will impact their operations.
Free two-hour parking at 83rd Avenue and Gateway Boulevard lot on Saturdays will be no more, as the City is set to take over the lot's management staring April 6.
The market has leased the parking lot from the City for the last 40 years, which allowed it to provide parking to visitors, along with discounted parking for other businesses around the area.
In June 2023, city councillors voted to not renew the lease.
Farmers' market patrons — and anyone parking there any other day of the week — will have to pay $2.50 per hour, with different maximums depending on the time of day.
No EPark machines will be installed there, so all drivers will have to pay with an app or online.
WATCH | What lies ahead for the parking lot near the OSFM?
The City said the change is part of its Old Strathcona Public Realm Strategy, aimed at preparing for the future of the area.
"The transition of the parking lot back to the City enables the City to begin the early preparation and scoping towards the long-term goal of establishing a district park," said the city of Edmonton in a statement to CBC News.
"An additional park will add space for the public visiting Old Strathcona to play, be active, and relax."
Micaela Szpigiel, the OSFM communications coordinator, said that although the new parking fee is relatively low, it could discourage people from visiting.
"Unfortunately, there are a lot of comments being made of people not coming to support our market because of the free parking," she said in an interview.
"But we're hoping that our team can really get the word out about this parking change so that people don't get tickets from the city and they can still come and support their favourite local farmers market."
For the OSFM, it says these parking changes could impact foot traffic, particularly tourist visitors, many of whom arrive in motorhomes.
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