Parking Services summer 2024 updates

A closeup of a hybrid car parked in one of the UBC Okanagan lots

As the campus community moves to a new academic year, Parking Services is able to share some important updates and improvements that enhance the parking experience on campus.

No change to parking costs

For the first time since before the COVID-19 pandemic, Parking Services is happy to share that there will be no increase in parking fees for this academic year.

Monthly permit and short-term rates for each lot can always be viewed at Find Parking.

Increased availability of parking permits

Thanks to the installation of smart data sensors last year, Parking Services now has a full year of insights into parking patterns and needs on campus. This data helps optimize the distribution of parking permits, particularly for commuting students with an additional 350 parking permits this year, representing an overall increase of 15 to 20 per cent.

Enhanced payment options

Recently, Parking Services piloted a scan and pay QR code system in short-term parking spaces, bypassing the need to use pay station dispensers or the Honk mobile app. This scan and pay option is being added to all lots on campus.

Parking Services is testing a new improved pay station in the University Centre short-term parking lot. This pay station, conveniently located at the top of the staircase exiting the building, is designed to be more user-friendly, featuring a larger, more colourful screen and the ability to accept tap payments for debit and credit cards. This is the first pay station on campus that accepts debit as a form of payment. This station has also been relocated away from the F Lot pay station to help reduce confusion.

Electric vehicle charging

Parking Services will be expanding the time allotted for electric vehicle charging while on campus from two hours to three, limited to one charging session per vehicle per day, starting September 1.

Licence plate recognition and enhanced security

A fixed licence plate recognition camera at the entrance to G Lot is also being tested. This system will automatically verify whether a vehicle has a valid parking permit as it enters and will alert Parking Services if any vehicles exit without paying. This camera is also integrated with the campus security systems, providing an extra layer of safety for our community.

Additional Enhancements

A number of parking lot improvements have taken place over recent months:

  • F Lot and University Centre short-term lots have been re-painted to help delineate the lots
  • Parking barriers have been placed at the north end of F Lot to keep vehicles away from the H Lot hill and improve safety.
  • The lines in S Lot have been repainted
  • I Lot entrance has been regraded for a smoother transition into the gravel lot.
  • Potholes in F Lot and the areas around the drainage grates in H Lot were repaved.