New parking rules will be implemented in the hospital zone surrounding the University Hospital of Northern British Columbia (UHNBC) starting Wednesday, October 16.

The changes, approved by the City Council on July 8, are intended to address current parking issues in the neighborhood, the city said in a news release.

Key updates include the continuation of two-hour free parking in designated areas around major medical facilities, including UHNBC and the Northern Interior Health Unit. This initiative aims to facilitate access for visitors and short-term patients, particularly in the context of the ongoing construction of a new car park.

In addition, the city will introduce paid parking on the remaining streets of the hospital zone.

Hospital visitors can use the HotSpot parking app, allowing them to pay $1 an hour or $7 for a full day. These rates align with the city’s broader parking fee structure. Visitors can download HotSpot from the Apple App Store or Google Play, create an account and enter their vehicle details for convenient parking payment. Signs posted in the area will provide additional instructions.

Hospital area residents are encouraged to apply for a residential parking permit through the city’s website. Permits purchased now will be valid until December 2025. Landlords are reminded to ensure their tenants have the necessary permits for on-street parking.

The City of Prince George is committed to balancing the need for accessible parking with growing demand in the region, the announcement states. The measures aim to improve parking turnover and availability while ensuring free and continuous access for short visits to medical facilities.

For a detailed map of the new parking zones, visit www.princegeorge.ca.