Add 30 min free parking on Yonge to allow people to support local businesses and restaurants for quick errands
From "Lets Talk Traffic Willowdale"
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Many of us do not use delivery app (particularly with the high cost) and sometimes you need to simply run in quickly to purchase a take away, quick grocery items, toiletries etc. Why should we have to pay $4 for 30 mins or purchase a minimum of $25 just for validation?
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Profile of John Zhu
Posted by:John Zhu
4 months ago
I disagree with this proposal. I’m all for people with disabilities to have free parking all the time.. but we need to have cost to cover the infrastructure in the city as we are in the red that comes to the budget and spending.
Profile of Mel P
Posted by:Mel P
4 months ago
@John Zhu I agree that those who are disabled should have free parking. There is also population that has mobility issues but are not legally classified as disabled, including other circumstances, such as injuries. Many times I have to travel outside of my neighbourhood, for the advantage of free parking to run my errands, when I am not able to walk locally to get what I need. For someone who cannot walk all the time, it can be frustrating to get around in one's own neighbourhood!
Profile of John Zhu
Posted by:John Zhu
4 months ago
@Mel P There’s a clear distinction between recognized disabilities and general or temporary mobility challenges, and parking policy has to be enforced based on that line. Accessible parking isn’t about convenience—it’s a protected accommodation for those who meet defined criteria. If enforcement becomes subjective, the system breaks down and those who rely on it lose access.
That said, your situation points to a gap. Temporary or non-classified mobility issues are real, but they don’t override the need for consistent rules. The solution isn’t to relax enforcement—it’s for municipalities to explore targeted options (e.g., short-term permits) that address these cases without compromising access for those with verified disabilities.
Profile of Jesse Han
Posted by:Jesse Han
4 months ago
Given the rising price of gas and the other costs mentioned, I'd encourage you to walk, cycle or take transit to the shops if you don't have mobility or other physical limitations.
Otherwise, Yonge Street will just be a hot mess (if not already) of parked cars, with drivers abusing the parking limit well beyond 30 minutes. Besides, there is no way to verify how long a car has been parked without a parking pass/ticket.
Profile of Mel P
Posted by:Mel P
4 months ago
@Jesse Han I actually do have mobility issues and have found the winter months a particular challenge to even walk around, let alone drive. Accommodations need to be considered for our wide range of community members. Also with technological advances, I'm sure we can find easy ways to enforce this proposal and provide employment opportunities.
Profile of Jesse Han
Posted by:Jesse Han
4 months ago
@Mel P I understand. I think a probable solution is a partnership between the Ontario government and its accessibility parking permit program (not sure which specific department that would be), and with Green P to use their parking app.
But that requires someone to champion the entire initiative and navigate the bureaucratic and technical hurdles.
Profile of Mel P
Posted by:Mel P
4 months ago
@Jesse Han I appreciate your understanding. It can be challenging when you're in the middle of two distinct categories.
That's a great partnership idea!
And I agree, the battle is getting the advocation for implementation, and I hope this forum can help with that. @Lily Cheng for your kind consideration :)
Total likes: 2, total dislikes: 7
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