Island Health has listened to the public, and has reversed its stance on pay parking at the two new hospitals.
“Island Health will not be charging the public, staff, volunteers or physicians for parking at the campuses of the North Island Hospital,” read a statement released by the health care provider, Friday, Sept. 1. “Many considerations were taken into account as part of the decision, including our patient and family-centred care focus, cost sustainability and community feedback.”
The press release went on to state the importance of consistency between the two campuses.
“Pay parking is currently in place at St. Joseph’s Hospital, but not at Campbell River Hospital. With the development of the North Island Hospital as one hospital across two campuses it was determined that a consistent parking approach should be taken across both campuses of the Hospital.”
The parking meters are still in place, and are unlikely to be removed prior to the Oct. 1 opening.
“In due time, the equipment will be redeployed to other sites as equipment upgrades are required,” said
Meribeth Burton, media relations for Island Health.
When asked whether this decision is permanent, or to be revisited in the future, Burton replied it is “unknown at this time.”