An online petition protesting the park board’s plan to implement pay parking at Spanish Banks is quickly gaining traction.
Launched on change.org earlier this week by a group called Vancouver Beach Lovers, the petition calling on Vancouver’s park board to reverse its decision to bring in pay parking at the popular beach garnered more than 2,900 signatures in three days.
“People come to Spanish Banks by car because it is by far the easiest way to get there, especially for large families, the elderly, disabled or people with bbq’s or other beach gear,” the petition states.
In November, park board commissioners approved a number of fee increases, including introducing a charge for parking at Spanish Banks. Commissioner Erin Shum voted against the proposal.
Starting this year, pay parking will be in effect at Spanish Banks from April 1 until Sept. 30. Parking rates have been set at $3.50 an hour, the daily rate is $13 and a season’s pass is $87.
Pay parking is currently in place at all the city’s destination parks and beaches, except for Spanish Banks.
“Pay parking is a critical source of revenue for the Park Board, providing funding for necessary enhancements to the safety, security and cleanliness of our parks,” staff said in a report.
At the time staff told commissioners that the board will be working with transit providers, as well as car and bike share companies to ensure there are alternative forms of transportation available to the public.
“This is a special place for people to come and go and enjoy the spectacular natural beauty of our city without having to put our hand in our pocket,” the petition states. “It’s a rare treat. Let’s keep this area free for all.”
@JessicaEKerr
