The Vancouver City Council approved some downtown parking changes Monday, including eliminating free weekend parking and paving the way for higher rates, over the protests of residents in the audience. The changes will go into effect June 1.

The changes stem from a parking study showing a lack of parking availability on weekends , especially at the waterfront, and a desire to encourage transportation without a car.

The city plans to change the number of days carpoolers need to share a ride from four to two to qualify for special parking spots. The carpool parking permit rate cap will increase from $30 for two months to a maximum of $100 per month. The hours and days the spots are reserved for carpool permit holders will expand from 7-9 a.m. to 8-11 a.m. and from weekdays to all week.

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