[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/parking3.jpg” caption=”Under McMaster’s new parking strategy, parking lots will be renamed using letters instead of numbers. Photo by Susan Bubak.”]McMaster's new parking strategy kicks into high gear over the summer with changes ranging from parking lots with numbers to lots with letters, increased automatic payment locations and a daily rate increase to $20 from today's $15.

Whether it's transponders or passcards that will be selected for regular parking clients is yet to be determined, says director of Security and Parking Services Terry Sullivan, as the tender for the technology and construction for setting it up in the lots will close next week.

“We will select the most cost-effective method of technology for our campus,” he said. He also noted that the first transponder or passcard will be provided free to parking clients.

On the agenda for the Phase I change will be parking lots 3, 4, 6 and 7, as well as the lot that serves Divinity College. After construction of the new entrance technology, parking lot 3 will become Lot I, Lot 4 will change to K, Lot 6 will become M and Lot 7 will be subdivided into lots N, O and P. Parking by Divinity College will become Lot A. The current Lot M will continue to have a section for daily pay users.

Starting in November 2007, Parking Services will begin to reallocate parking spots as a result of the new underground spots associated with the Ronald V. Joyce Stadium. It is expected that this reallocation will continue through January of next year.

Phase II — changes to current lots 1 and 2 — will take place during the summer of 2008, while the increased daily rate will be effective September 4. Parking clients will be kept up to date on lot changes through direct e-mail periodically over the summer. They can also check the Parking Services website.

Sullivan says the changes will result in better service for parking clients and more efficient operation for the University.