Part 1 of 2.
James Veltkamp, planner for the City of Edmonton, talks about the problems with current minimum parking requirements in municipalities. He argues a minimum parking requirement is the single most important regulation we have to shape the physical design of cities, and influence people’s choices about where they live, work and socialize.
He gives a history of parking regulation changes, starting with the end of World War II when the middle class developed quickly, more vehicles were purchased, and there was no longer enough parking spaces in cities. Because of this, zoning by-laws changed and businesses were required to provide more parking for shoppers. He questions the usefulness of such dated by-laws.
If we want mixed-use spaces designed for bicyclists, vehicles, pedestrians, retail storefront and apartments, our by-laws need to reflect this. Policy decisions should be focused on people, rather than vehicle space. How should we view parking? As an ancillary service required by law, a type of infrastructure required as part of the development strategy, or a commodity that generates a return on investment and is priced according to demand? Veltkamp sees it as a commodity.
This presentation was a part of the Alberta Professional Planners Institute’s Edmonton Luncheon, in September of 2014.
