The Municipality of Clarington has announced the replacement of their old parking meters throughout downtown Bowmanville.
Announced Jan. 27 and part of the Clarington Strategic Plan, the new meters, called MK Beacons, will support debit and credit card payments, which is an upgrade from the current ones that are 25 to 30 years old and only accept cash.
Kristina Bergeron, the manager of municipal law enforcement, otherwise known as bylaw enforcement, said the improvements will enhance accessibility.
“I think it gives people more options,” Bergeron said.
The same was said by Tracey Pettigrew, owner of Romancing the Home on King Street.
“More flexible card payments will definitely be an asset,” said Pettigrew who also pointed out the retention of the cash payment feature, which is easier for seniors who may not carry cards. “They are important too.”
Chris Aucoin, owner of the Brewer’s Pantry, agrees that making payments easier is better. “It’s definitely a benefit,” he said.
However, he also believes the upgrades will bring the area up-to-date.
“I think it will just be getting with the times and catching up with the way other cities do it,” he said.
Currently there are around 170 meters throughout the area, with 99 new meters being installed. While the old meters could only support one parking space, the new ones can support two, reducing the number of meters required while also reducing maintenance costs.
Bergeron explained the process will start this week and should take a week or two to complete.
Decorative pole covers will be added in the spring to help the new meters blend into the downtown aesthetic.