A new paid parking system for downtown Red Deer will be implemented this summer to replace parking metres.
With the HotSpot app, motorists can pay for and extend parking sessions from a mobile device. They can avoid tickets with auto-alerts, and save money by refunding unfinished parking sessions.
Alternatively, motorists can pay for parking using a quick-access QR code or at one of nine pay stations that will be installed throughout the downtown and hospital area.
The new system will feature equipment and software selected by The City through a competitive bid process. This includes license plate recognition software as the method of reinforcing paid parking.
“HotSpot’s technology offers many improvements… and we’re confident this upgrade will provide an enhanced customer experience for Red Deer residents and visitors,” said Amy Fengstad, Acting Manager of Inspections & Licensing.
She called the HotSpot app and new pay stations “very user-friendly. When the new system launches, it will be easier than ever to visit downtown businesses and events.”
According to a city release, consistent equipment and payment methods throughout downtown will make it easier for customers to understand and pay for parking.
Enhanced reporting and data collection will allow the City of Red Deer to better understanding how parking options are being used, enabling data-based decision-making for future improvements.
More information about downtown parking improvements can be found at reddeer.ca/parkingproject.
