Port Moody hikes Rocky Point parking rates after first-year demand data

Port Moody is adjusting its pay parking program after a year of occupancy data showed some waterfront areas remain consistently busy while other locations are seeing lower demand.

Council has approved a series of changes to parking rates, operating hours, and seasonal dates affecting the city’s five paid parking areas, with the new rules now in effect.

The City of Port Moody said the adjustments are aimed at better managing turnover in high-demand areas such as Rocky Point Park, Murray Street, and Esplanade Avenue, while easing costs in less congested locations like Suter Brook Village and Ungless Way.

“The data showed that parking spaces at Rocky Point Park, Esplanade Avenue, and Murray Street continue to be in high demand on a regular basis, while parking areas at Suter Brook Village and Ungless Way are typically less busy,” Mayor Meghan Lahti said.

Among the biggest changes is a higher regular on-season rate at Rocky Point Park, which has increased from $2.50 per hour to $3.75 per hour after the first hour. However, the city has also introduced a reduced $1.50 rate for the first hour during the busy season at Rocky Point Park, Murray Street, and Esplanade Avenue.

The city has also extended the “on-season” period significantly. Higher seasonal rates now apply from April 1 to Sept. 30 each year, instead of from June 1 to Aug. 31.

During the off-season – now running from Oct. 1 to March 31 – the first hour of parking at Rocky Point Park, Murray Street, and Esplanade Avenue will now be free. After the first hour, the hourly rate remains $1.50.

Across all five paid parking areas, daily pay parking hours now begin at 9 a.m. instead of 7 a.m.

The city also reduced rates in lower-demand areas. Parking at Suter Brook Village has dropped from $2.25 to $2 per hour, while Ungless Way has been reduced to $1.50 per hour from $2.25.

Time limits for parking remain unchanged in all locations.

According to the city, staff analyzed parking data after the program’s first year to measure occupancy levels and annual revenue generation before presenting findings to council. Staff were then directed to bring forward proposed changes aimed at meeting parking occupancy targets across the system.

Port Moody introduced paid parking in September 2024 as part of efforts to manage congestion and improve parking availability at popular destinations.