The City of Nelson is proposing a $50 increase to the annual seniors’ parking pass fee.
Currently $90 per year, the parking permit allows residents aged 65 and older to park anywhere downtown, except on Baker Street.
City staff have proposed raising the permit fee by $50 to $144 annually. According to a civic document, this increase would align with the $0.75 hourly parking rate increase implemented in early 2024.
Approximately 250 senior parking permits are sold each year. With the proposed increase to $144 annually, the city states the pass will pay for itself if a senior parks in the downtown core for an average of 1.5 hours per week or 15 minutes per day.
The funds generated through the city’s parking meters support the capital reserve fund, which is primarily used to finance capital infrastructure projects such as roads, bike lanes, and sidewalks. The city estimates the senior parking permit increase will generate an additional $10,000 annually.
In addition, the city says the increase in parking permit rates will encourage residents to use alternative forms of transportation, such as transit, cycling, and walking, fostering a healthy and sustainable environment by supporting low-carbon transportation options.
Nelson City Council is scheduled to discuss the proposed increase during the January 8 council meeting.
If approved, notice of the changes will be posted on the city’s website and social media accounts, as applicable.
Be the first to know! Don’t miss out on breaking news and daily updates in your area. Sign up to MyNelsonNow News Alerts.
