Clarington has modernized parking in downtown Bowmanville at a cost some $170,000 lower than the budgeted $319,800.
The original proposal was to remove the 171 existing meters and replace them with about 30 centrally located pay and display meter units. The project was approved in the 2024-2027 multi-year budget.
The outdated coin-only meters were replaced with new single-space smart meters that accept cash, debit, and credit, at much lower cost.
“As the total cost of the project was $149,159.70 and resulted in the project cost being under the approved budget, a portion of the surplus has been allocated toward future maintenance, upgrades, and repairs of the parking meter infrastructure. This will ensure continued functionality, improved service delivery, and long- term asset sustainability,” said a Clarington report.
The parking upgrades have also added four new parking spaces, faster enforcement, and increased efficiency, saving nearly 800 staff hours a year.
Installation of new meter poles is currently underway, and the corresponding parking meters have been ordered.
Majority Payments Still Coin
While the majority of parking transactions continue to be made using coins, there is a gradual shift toward alternative payment methods such as debit, credit, and mobile platforms.
The total revenue generated from the meters is $74,807.80. When including online payments processed through Hotspot, the total revenue increases to $85,088.92. This reflects a net increase of $5820.45, representing a 7.34% growth for same period in 2024, the report said.
Several operational efficiencies have also been achieved as a result of this project. It is estimated that 16 staff hours per week (8 hours per officer) have been avoided across coin collection, coin counting, meter maintenance, and enforcement activities. Annually, this equates to 768 hours of staff time, representing a cost savings of approximately $37,542.53, the report added.
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