I am writing to address a parking issue downtown that affects a significant portion of the
Prince George population. On Friday January 16th in the afternoon, I parked in the space
outside Scotiabank on 4th and Victoria that was previously designated for handicapped
parking.
Much to my surprise, I exited the bank to find a $25 parking ticket on my car even though I have paid for and prominently displayed my handicapped parking privileges. Apparently what used to be handicapped parking is now a no parking zone.
This is confusing, because the blue curb would indicate that it is indeed still a handicapped parking zone, and distressing because there is no handicapped parking anywhere near the Scotiabank on Victoria street.
Adding insult to injury, I called the number on the ticket to address my complaint, and the staff were very rude. They indicated that someone would get back to me, but as of January 22nd no one has addressed the issue.
I feel this is a matter to be addressed in a letter to the editor, as there are many people
subject to limited accessibility who require parking spaces such as the one that used to be
outside the Scotiabank. That particular area of downtown is very busy, and parking at all
can be an issue, let alone parking for persons with limited mobility, and it is the city's
responsibility to provide adequate parking for this segment of the population.
Furthermore, the city should provide staff who are prepared to address these issues in a
timely and appropriate manner. As they have failed to do so on both counts, I have
brought the issue to you.
Arlene Hille
Prince George
