The municipality announced this week that all 22 new pay and display parking machines in downtown Picton are active, although parking enforcement has not yet resumed.
The machines were installed and activated late last year, replacing 74 single parking meters. During the transition from the meters to the pay and display machines, the County has opted to extend the Feed the Meter campaign which supports the Food for Learning program. All money deposited in the machines until March 1 will go to provide healthful meals and snacks to local school children. Regular parking enforcement will resume when the extended campaign ends on Thursday, March 1.
Mayor Robert Quaiff says in a news release from the municipality the stations will benefit customers seeking alternate ways to pay for parking.
“Parking stations support our efforts to enhance downtown Picton as an inviting destination for residents and visitors alike,” says Quaiff. “Pay stations will reduce street congestion and improve snow removal, making it easier for pedestrians to get around. Furthermore, the stations will improve customer service with drivers having more payment options.”
Street parking is available along Picton Main Street between Bridge and Chapel streets. It’s also available on Elizabeth, Ross, and King streets. Parking costs $1 per hour with a two-hour maximum stay. Parking is also available in the Market Lane lot at a cost of $0.50 per hour.
The pay and display machines are spaced 20 meters apart along each street and accept coins, credit cards, and non-PIN debit cards. They also accept payment through mobile devices. Payment instructions are posted on each parking station.
“Parking spaces closest to downtown businesses are at a premium, especially during the busy summer months,” Quaiff says. “With the two-hour limit, we want to encourage parking circulation and give as many people as possible the opportunity to park in these spaces.”
The short-term parking in the downtown core is complemented by free municipal parking lots on King Street and Mary Street, the release says. Both lots are within walking distance for customers visiting downtown businesses.
Those who have accessible parking permits can park in any parking space free of charge in addition to existing designated accessible spaces.
—Staff