Council searches for solution to North Lakes CBD parking issue
0Moreton Bay Regional Council is exploring options to introduce a smart car parking system to better manage parking in the North Lakes CBD.
Councillor for Division 4, Julie Greer, said in the first major step for the pilot project, council would seek Expressions of Interest for the design, installation and operation of the system over the next three weeks.
“This EOI process will allow us to better understand what smart car-parking systems, processes and technology are currently available and what system may work best to help manage parking demand in the increasingly busy North Lakes CBD,” Cr Greer said.
“Everywhere you look in North Lakes, there’s new businesses opening their doors and jobs being created, which is fantastic – but with a population of more than 20,000 and visitors coming from all over to shop, dine, or work, we know it’s important that we effectively manage parking within the CBD area.
“Since Westfield North Lakes introduced paid parking for stays longer than three hours, we’ve seen significant increases in the number of motorists parking in free, public parking spaces in the CBD for extended periods, and even all day.
“Through the trial of council’s first smart car-parking system, we’ll be looking to limit all-day parking in the CBD so that more short term parking opportunities of 2-3 hours can be provided.
“By restricting all-day parking and improving the availability of short term parking bays, we hope to revitalise the CBD and make it far easier for residents and visitors to access local businesses and services in this area.
“It’s intended that the system will have the capability to integrate with smart technology which could deliver benefits such as active signage providing real-time parking information, similar to that seen in some shopping centres, or even the potential for a smart phone application directing motorists to available parking spaces and providing a notification when their stay is approaching the time limit.”
