The Parking Strategy will review the current parking policies, operations, and monitoring strategies, as well as current parking standards according to the Town of Penetanguishene’s Zoning By-law. Outcomes of this review will provide an opportunity to amend existing standards, develop improved by-law regulations, and recommend enhanced enforcement procedures. The Parking Strategy will also help facilitate the recommendations outlined in the Town’s Official Plan such as the design of parking facilities to provide better pedestrian and bicycle access.

There is significant opportunity to develop a comprehensive parking strategy to optimize the current downtown parking supply, implement shared parking strategies to reduce the number of unnecessary parking spaces, and potentially repurpose surface lots for new developments and community spaces that will create a more vibrant and pedestrian-friendly downtown. There are also opportunities through the Parking Strategy to address resident desires for a more walkable downtown by reviewing surrounding active transportation infrastructure and supporting facilities (e.g., bike and e-scooter parking).

Parking Strategy Implementation

Council was presented the Parking Strategy Report in the first part of 2025, and requested further consultation with the public on specific changes to parking regulations. Specifically they requested input into the following:

• Adding Barrier Free Parking spaces to each Block in Downtown from Simcoe/Water Street to Beck Boulevard, on Robert Street West, and at the Town Dock.
• Restrict vehicle lengths for the angled parking spaces on Main Street (between Robert Street and Simcoe Street) to under 5.4 metres (17.7 feet).
• Change parking restrictions on a portion of on Main Street (between Brock Street to Beck Boulevard) from a 30-minute time limit to a 2-hour time limit, consistent with the rest of Main Street.
• Add one (1) to two (2) 15-minute parking spaces to each Block on Main Street.
• Receive feedback on a Residential Parking Permit Program for overnight parking in Downtown including cost, locations, and demand.
• Receive feedback on a Daytime Permit Pass Program for businesses requiring parking permits for longer than 2 hours including cost, locations, and demand.

Consultation with the public, residents, visitors and property owners is planned for the Fall of 2025.

When: Wednesday, September 17, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.

Location: Council Chambers (2^nd floor of Town Hall), 10 Robert Street West, Penetanguishene.

Presentation: A brief presentation will be given by staff at 2:15 p.m. and 7:15 p.m. with a question-and-answer period to follow.

Following the feedback from the public a report is proposed to be presented in November to the Committee of the Whole with recommendations. No changes will be made to parking in Downtown until the Parking and Traffic By-law is amended by Council.