McMaster's Board of Governors has approved new parking rates for campus.

Parking in most zones will increase by about 2 per cent as of Sept. 1, 2005. Parking fees help support inflation, infrastructure, maintenance of current lots, and the construction of future parking facilities.

Parking rate increases this year are significantly less than in the past few years, when commuters saw a 20 per cent increase in fees. McMaster's fees, which range between $27-$64 are consistent with that of other geographically similar universities, such as the University of Guelph, which charges between $24-$67 and The University of Western Ontario, which charges between $25-$81.

“Any increase in parking fees comes with some concern, even if it is a small increase,” says Karen Belaire, vice-president administration. “There may be some concern over the rising cost of parking and loss of some parking space on campus. But the unfortunate reality is parking is and will remain a challenge for the university, due to an increase in population, the need to construct more buildings, and the rising cost to maintain parking facilities. The arrival of the new director of Security and Parking Services will initiate the development of a parking strategic plan. The plan will review all elements of parking from access and affordability to environmental concerns.”

Recently, 300 Zone 1 permit holders were asked to relocate to other parking areas due to the construction of a residence project. Currently there are plans being developed to add back some new parking spaces in Zone 1 to relieve some of the pressure and to prepare for the construction of the new stadium in 2006.

This work will include the development of temporary parking spaces in preparation for the longer term planning for Zone 1; and a temporary walkway will be clearly marked for the safety of pedestrians walking to and from the north end of Zone 1. These will require the removal of some cedar shrubs. No major trees will be disturbed. A detailed landscaping plan will be implemented at the completion of the residence project. The new residence is scheduled to open by fall 2006.

New parking rates effective Sept. 2005:

Zones 2 and 3 – $62 changes to $64

Zones 1, 4 and 5 – $38 changes to $39

Zones 6 and 7 – $26 changes to $27

Motorcycle permit annually – $130 changes to $133

Daily flat rate after 4 p.m. for central campus changes from $3.50 to
$5

Daily flat fee for west campus changes from $3.50 to $5