Starting Saturday, drivers will be able to park for free in city parking lots on evenings and weekends in Downtown Guelph.
But the courtesy doesn't extend to on-street parking, where the same two-hour free parking will remain in effect.
The city announced Tuesday that it was opening the city's seven open parking lots for free at certain times.
“We know that finding parking spots in the downtown this summer will be harder with two of our lots closed for construction,” says Jamie Zettle, program manager parking, in a news release. “Opening up our other lots for free evening and weekend parking is one way we’re making it easier for people to visit, shop and eat downtown.”
The city will offer temporary free evening and weekend parking downtown while the West Parkade is fully closed for construction.
The Baker Street, East Parkade and East Surface lots will still require a flat $5 fee during special events. These lots will be signed accordingly during these events.
Fountain Street East, Neeve Street, Elizabeth Street and the East Parkade are permit only lots from Monday to Friday, 8 a.m.–6 p.m. Parking is free in these lots on evenings after 6 p.m. and on weekends starting May 5.
Baker Street, Wyndham Street and Macdonell Street will continue to require payment Monday to Friday, 8 a.m.–6 p.m. Parking is free in these lots on evenings after 6 p.m. and on weekends starting May 5.
There are no paid hourly parking spaces available in the East Surface lot from Monday to Friday, 8 a.m.–6 p.m. These spaces have been reassigned to permit holders displaced from the West Parkade. Parking is free in this lot on evenings after 6 p.m. and on weekends starting May 5.
"The City appreciates your patience, understanding and co-operation during these important construction projects. Project details and any updates will be posted on guelph.ca/construction," said the release.
