The sensors – which are small devices buried beneath each selected parking spot – will record when vehicles enter and leave the parking space. The data will be relayed by a solar-powered network and will be monitored by AlburyCity rangers.
If a vehicle overstays the limit, the system will alert rangers who will be able to issue infringement notices if necessary.
AlburyCity Mayor Kevin Mack said the system should provide better access to CBD parking places for all drivers by deterring motorists from overstaying their allotted time.
“This technology eliminates the need for rangers to physically monitor those parking bays in the test site, meaning they’ll have more time to serve the community in other ways, such as reuniting lost pets with their owners,” he said.
“ It will also help Council to make long term infrastructure improvements by providing solid data about parking practices in the city centre.
“The sensors will play an important role in educating and encouraging drivers to do the right thing so all motorists get fair access to parking spaces.”
Phase One will involve 172 parking bays in Dean, Olive and Kiewa Streets, with more bays being added as the trial continues.
Parking will remain free at all parking spaces across Albury.
“While we hope this trial will create fairer, more equitable parking opportunities for all drivers, it’s also part of a bigger picture to become a smarter, more connected community,” Cr Mack said.
“For example, we’re already using digital technology to tell us when our public rubbish bins need to be emptied and we’re also working closely with our Two Cities One Community partner, Wodonga Council, to investigate other ways of making sure our community is ahead of the game in a rapidly-changing digital world.
“The idea is to make our community more liveable, workable and sustainable by harnessing digital technology.”
As part of efforts to plan for the city’s growth and develop services for the future, data from the sensors will be collected and assessed during the trial, while the community will be invited to provide feedback to help inform decisions about future use of the technology.
The sensors will not require any change of behaviour by motorists, but drivers are urged to monitor their parking stays to remove the risk of getting infringement notices while freeing up spaces for other users.
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