On the same day the city’s new on-street parking hikes came into effect, city politicians have decided to look into expanding the number of on-street, metered parking spaces in the downtown core.
Coun. Tim Lauer brought forward an inquiry motion at Monday’s meeting, asking city staff to work with the Downtown Orillia Management Board and parking advisory committee to look into the feasibility, costs, and options for increasing the number of paid parking spaces downtown.
“Through discussions on the parking advisory committee, it was made apparent that there is no real study going on, currently, that would include the idea of expanded on-street parking, so this is merely a referral back to the committee, who are interested in exploring the idea,” Lauer said.
Coun. Ralph Cipolla expressed concern that available on-street parking downtown was already “taken up,” but Lauer clarified he meant downtown streets other than Mississaga Street.
“No, it isn't all taken up. There's possibilities on Colborne, there's possibilities on Coldwater,” Lauer responded.
Council agreed to Lauer’s request.
More may be read about the city’s new parking rates here.
