Description
Space is always at a premium in urban areas, especially as cities promote density and infill housing. One way to promote infill development and alternative forms of transportation that rely less on automobiles, is to consider adjustments to parking requirements.
For example, to promote infill housing, parking requirements can be adjusted by reducing or eliminating minimums, especially near transit, and by incentivizing alternatives like car-sharing and bike parking. This shift can reduce emissions and development costs, allowing for increased density and housing affordability.
In BC, parking requirements in Transit-Oriented Areas (TOAs) (defined by the provincial government) have been significantly reduced, with municipalities required to remove residential parking minimums by June 30, 2024. Kelowna's four TOAs include Orchard Park Mall, Rutland, Okanagan College, and the Hospital Area.
The City is also working on a curbside management strategy that will look at effective use of curbside/on-street parking in urban areas.