Davisville Junior Public School now has a Green P parking lot, as part of a pilot project launched this month between the Toronto District School Board (TDSB) and Toronto Parking Authority. “It’ll be like any other city lot where you put money in and get a little ticket, which you put on your windshield or dash,” said Shelley Laskin, school trustee.
The pilot project is unfolding at seven schools across the city in areas where there is a greater demand for parking, said Sheila Penney, the strategic building and renewal director for the TDSB. Parking fees will be charged during after-school hours and on weekends.
Rob McCready, a local resident, said he thinks the program is great as it raises revenue for the school. “I haven’t heard a single complaint about it,” he said. In fact, he said it is nice to see the parking lot used. For years, during after-school hours, the parking lot entrance was chained.
Another pilot project benefit is it will help resolve current parking issues. “In some communities the neighbours tend to use the parking lot as their own, and it makes it problematic for staff,” said Laskin. “Not only is this project a way to make some revenue, but it’s also a way to manage parking.”
According to a TDSB report, the school will receive 10 per cent of the proceeds. The board — which currently has a $3-billion backlog — will receive 15 per cent. The project’s success will be evaluated next January.