Looking for a park in the Toowoomba CBD is set to become easier with the introduction of Smart Parking technology.
As part of the new program, Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC) has awarded Duncan Solutions Australia with a contract to supply the Smart Parking Integrated Infrastructure solution to support Council’s implementation of the Toowoomba City Centre Car Parking Strategy.
TRC Infrastructure Committee portfolio leader Cr Melissa Taylor said the introduction of this new technology would not only mean parking in the CBD would be easier than ever, but it would also be a catalyst for other project innovations across the Region.
“We’re excited to bring this Smart Cities technology to the Toowoomba Region and plan to commence active engagement with residents and business communities from late February 2022,” she said.
“By simply downloading a phone application, residents and visitors will be able to easily find available carparks and have more payment options, including contactless payment. For customers who choose not to download the app, our existing payment methods will still be available.
“Another key function of the new technology will be for app users to receive notifications before parking time limits are reached to avoid infringements, with free parking introduced for the first 30 minutes in CBD on-street one and two hour car parking spaces.
“Council is committed to implementing the Toowoomba City Centre Car Parking Strategy which was endorsed in 2019.
“A key factor in delivering the Smart Parking technology is to provide an improved experience for customers by making parking in high-demand locations more accessible.
“Regular turnover of parking spaces in the CBD will help our business community by providing more opportunities for customers to shop.
“Ultimately, it is intended that motorists will be able to take advantage of real-time digital parking signs identifying available parking spaces.
“Council looks forward to working with our contractor and providing opportunity during the commissioning phase for residents and businesses to see first-hand how the technology will make parking in the city centre easier.”
The integrated parking technology is expected to be available from July 2022.
