ChazYEG
Senior Member
I agree that markets, regardless of their nature, do require parking to effectively attract people, but I believe we could get away with a little less parking, or creative solutions for it (maybe do it underground and develop above, for example, but reduce the total amount of parking by a percentage, so we start pushing people towards other modes).^^
^
When we go to Granville Market we usually drive. Same with the St. Lawrence Market in Downtown Toronto. Same when I go to Byward in Ottawa. It's not about removing parking as much as it is about providing a good variety of options, good transit and an amazing experience in the neighbourhood once you get there to not just drive in and get your stuff and go, but walk, explore and make a day of it.
Don't for a second think this is an Edmonton/car-centric thing.
I just believe that these are prime plots of land, in one of the most desirable areas of the city, in/around a street that is probable the most walkable and pleasant in town, and having surface parking there is a colossal wasted opportunity.