Parking sensors roll out in Rocky CBD
Published on 07 August 2017
Finding a parking space in the CBD is set to become easier than ever with Council this week installing smart sensors in over 500 parks which can be linked to a free app on their phone.
Rockhampton Regional Council’s Divisional Councillor Drew Wickerson said the sensors’ wireless electromagnetic technology will link to the free app PayStay and is encouraging residents to download it now.
“This means the next time you’re looking for a park in the CBD, your passenger can open the app up on their phone and check in real-time where spots are available,” Cr Wickerson said.
“This is set to be a huge time saver for people parking in the CBD and means more time spent on the ground shopping instead of getting frustrated behind the wheel, so it’ll have multiple benefits for not only our drivers but for our local businesses.
“This is a key element of our Smart City strategy with the app communicating wirelessly to Council’s network via solar devices installed in Council’s standard sign poles.”
Councillor Wickerson said Council was grateful to have received matching funding from the State Government’s Building our Regions program for the Riverfront and CBD Smart technologies project that also includes the smart poles and lighting with integrated sound systems, smart CCTV cameras and free public Wi-Fi throughout the CBD.
Member for Rockhampton Bill Byrne said it was excellent to see the rollout starting this week.
“It is great to see Rockhampton leading a technological revolution and leading the way in the use of smart technology,” said Mr Byrne.
“The smart parking sensors are just one way residents and visitors will benefit from Council’s decision, supported by $2.02 million in Palaszczuk Government funding, to embrace the future and be a smart hub pioneer.
“Late last year our Government recognised the Rockhampton CBD as one of its four priority projects in terms of creating inner city living, so it is important to support initiatives like this one that will enhance liveability for residents.”
Stage one of the rollout will be between Derby and Fitzroy Streets with 84 sensors installed along Quay Street, 232 along East Street and 85 on Bolsover Street. From East to Bolsover Streets there will be 48 installed along William Street, and 59 along Denham Street.
The sensors will be installed starting Wednesday night after business hours, between 8pm and 7am, to minimise any impact on customer parking in the CBD.
Stage two of the project, planned for later in the financial year, will include parking sensors in an additional 375 parking bays surrounding East Street between Fitzroy and Archer Street and Alma Street Between William and Fitzroy Streets. It will also include digital signage at the parking zone entry points displaying parking availability within the zone.