Drivers parking in downtown Kincardine will soon have to keep an eye on the clock.
Starting Thursday, the municipality will limit on-street parking on Queen Street between Durham Market Street South and Durham Street to a maximum of three hours. The new time restriction will be in effect from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., seven days a week.
“Our Business Improvement Area (BIA) members requested this change to help better serve their patrons,” said Jennifer Lawrie, the municipality's clerk and manager of legislative services. “It helps to make sure that there is parking in spaces appropriate to visitor’s needs and their length of stay while downtown.”
The hope is the new three hour time limit will keep parking spaces along the four-block stretch open for people who are planning a quick trip in and out of the downtown to shop or eat. Those wanting to park for the day can still do so for free at the large municipal lots off Princes and Lambton streets, as well as on side streets off of Queen Street.
Spaces that are designated as accessible parking will continue to be time restriction free for those with a permit.
"Our wish is for the businesses to be easily accessible for everyone," said BIA President Justine McManus.
People heading downtown are also being encouraged to use active transportation, including walking, biking, and carpooling.
Drivers looking for additional details about the three hour parking zone, including a map, can go to www.kincardine.ca/Parking.