Devon provides update on summer pilot project

DEVON -- The Town of Devon has provided an update on this summer's paid parking pilot project at Voyageur Park. 

According to data published at this week's Council meeting, paid parking at the park generated $7,625 in gross revenue in July, and $543.83 during the final week of June. The idea for the pilot project was first brought forward in February, as Devon administration stated that an overabundance of parking congestion during the summer months had negative impacts on emergency services, staff, and users of the park.

In their report, Devon staff say that more than 300 local households registered for free parking exemptions prior to the launch of the new paid parking program. This comes as only non-residents and unregistered Devon residents are required to pay at both Voyageur Park and the Boat Launch Lot. For enforcement, a total of 229 violation tickets have been issued so far this summer, with a 21.53 per cent rate of compliance following the initial education period.

In terms of the public's response to the new paid parking, the Town of Devon says that the overall feedback has been positive. They say that visitors have understood the rationale of the measures, while they add that some residents have even suggested that higher parking rates should be brought into effect. Meantime, some residents say they would rather a sticker or permit to hang in their window as opposed to entering their license plate and information each time they use the park.

Other concerns noted by the public include situations where visitors have received violation tickets even after paying for parking, and the overall usability of the park's scan-to-pay system. Paid parking at Voyageur Park will be in effect until September 30.