District of Squamish’s Paid Parking Proposal

The District of Squamish (DoS) is currently considering charging for parking at the Smoke Bluffs, Adventure Centre and Darrell Bay, as well as other non climbing destinations. They are currently surveying the community and visitors about this proposal, as well as charging for parking downtown. It’s really important to share your opinions in the survey linked here: https://letstalksquamish.ca/parking-management

Key reasons we do not support this:

The DoS says the aims are to raise money from tourists and to fix parking issues. Unlike the downtown parking issue, which was extensively studied, there is no information to suggest parking management is needed at these outdoor destinations. Their strategy document suggests implementing this program now for cost savings and efficiency of rolling both out at once. Also, this will not just raise money from tourists - many of the users of these parking lots live in Squamish and pay taxes to fund them. Many locals are frequent visitors and likely to be most affected.

One of the proposed locations for paid parking is the Adventure Centre, which has previously been highlighted by the DoS as an ideal spot to park and carpool or take buses from. Charging for parking there is incompatible with this and no alternative park and ride location is suggested. The summer parks bus is an important option for people visiting the Chief, where parking is under more strain.

There is also no information about potential parking costs or options for annual passes. Additionally, there is a suggestion of only charging during peak season, but the defined peak season is 8 months of the year, far longer than the true busy months.