Grand River Transit

[jamincan]

While there is a correlation between parking prices and transit usage, I'd be hesitant to conclude that increasing the cost of parking would drive up transit usage in KW. Cities where there is high transit usage and high parking rates also are generally far larger and far more centralized than KW. As a general rule that applies for both small and large cities, I think you'll find that both transit usage and parking prices are more a function of land value than transit use is a function of parking prices.

This is basic economics, making something more expensive (driving), will result in less of that thing. Whether the resulting people get on a bus, or a bike, or shoes, or simply don't make the trip is definitely up for discussion, and that will likely depend on how walkable, bikeable, transit friendly, and optional the trip is.  But making driving more expensive will reduce driving.

Realistically, what do you propose, policy-wise?

Our goal should be to make our community more accessible and less car-dependent. That means good transit. Good active transportation options. Healthy downtowns with thriving businesses that people want to go to. If raising the price of parking downtown decreased car traffic, but drove businesses and people away from downtown, I'd argue it is counterproductive.