New parking regulations will be implemented in the Hospital Zone surrounding the University Hospital of Northern British Columbia (UHNBC) as of Wednesday, Oct. 16.
The changes, approved by city council on July 8, aim to address ongoing parking challenges in the area, the city states in an announcement.
Key updates include the continuation of two-hour free parking in designated areas around major medical facilities, including UHNBC and the Northern Interior Health Unit. This initiative is designed to facilitate access for short-term visitors and patients, especially amid ongoing construction of a new parkade.
Additionally, the city will introduce pay parking in the remaining streets of the Hospital Zone.
Visitors to the hospital can use the HotSpot parking app, allowing them to pay $1 per hour or $7 for a full day. These rates align with the city’s broader parking fee structure. Visitors can download HotSpot from the Apple App Store or Google Play, create an account, and input their vehicle details for convenient parking payment. Signs posted in the area will provide additional instructions.
Residents in the Hospital Zone are encouraged to apply for a residential parking permit via the city’s website. Permits purchased now will be valid until December 2025. Landlords are reminded to ensure their tenants have the necessary permits for street parking.
The City of Prince George is dedicated to balancing the need for accessible parking with the growing demand in the area, states the announcement. The measures aim to enhance parking turnover and availability while ensuring continued free access for short visits to medical facilities.
For a detailed map of the new parking zones, visit www.princegeorge.ca.