PARKER

Canadian Parking Association | 43 years of innovation
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Canadian Parking Association | 43 years of innovation
ACCESS THE PEOPLE WHO ARE REIMAGINING HOW COMMUNITIES THRIVE AND URBAN CENTRES ARE TRANSFORMING.
• Thought Leaders & Researchers
• Parking Operators & Managers
• Mobility Service Providers
• Urban Planners & Designers
• Transportation Engineers
• Equipment & Technology Innovators

• Sustainable Transportation Advocates
• EV/AV Developers
• Community Advocates
• Government Officials & Policymakers
• Real Estate Developers






PRESIDENT
Frank Cavaliere RJC Engineers fcavaliere@rjc.ca
VICE PRESIDENT
Adamo Donatucci Toronto Parking Authority Adamo.donatucci@greenpmobility.com
TREASURER
James Mackay Mackay Meters james.mackay@mackaymeters.com
SECRETARY
Sharon Lewinson ACT Canada info@actcanada.com
PAST PRESIDENT
Ralph Bond BA Consulting Group Ltd. bond@bagroup.com
DIRECTORS
David Agosti
Simon Fraser University daagosti@sfu.ca
Chris Blaschuk The City of Calgary chris.blaschuk@calgary.ca
Lisa Ciancone St. Joseph’s Healthcare lciancon@stjoes.ca
Sam Cusick AIMS (EDC) Corp. sam@aimsparking.com
Joni Eros PayByPhone joni.eros@corpay.com
Nicolas Filion Agence de mobilité durable nfilion@agencemobilitedurable.ca
Ali Haloui
Montreal-Trudeau Int’l Airport ali.haloui@admtl.com
Wayne Sum City of Saskatoon wayne.sum@saskatoon.ca
Shannon Talbot University of Guelph stalbot@parking.uoguelph.ca
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Carole Whitehorne 613 727 0700 x 10 carole@canadianparking.ca
BRAND & COMMUNICATIONS
Brenda Hanna 613 727 0700 x 15 brenda@canadianparking.ca
EDITOR AND ADVERTISING
carole@canadianparking.ca
613-727-0700 x 10
DESIGN AND MARKETING
brenda@canadianparking.ca
613-727-0700 x 15
















RESERVE YOUR ADVERTISING SPACE TODAY! info@canadianparking.ca



STAY CONNECTED WITH THE CPA www.canadianparking.ca/contact Distribution: 4,200



















































The Canadian Parking Association is now offering three marketing options to effectively connect with potential clients. Maximize your outreach and direct your advertising towards the Canadian Parking and Mobility markets by taking advantage of these new opportunities offered by the CPA.
Combine advertising options and save. Ad space rates for Parker magazine will be discounted by 10% for each issue that is accompanied by an online web ad or eNewsletter ad.
Combined circulation for Parker and eNewsletter options will place your ad in front of 4,500 contacts up to 30 times in a calendar year. Online ads and electronic Parker are just a click away, and will link CPA contacts and visitors directly to your site.
Secure your preferred space today.

FRANK CAVALIERE, PRESIDENT
Iam honored to address you as the President of the Canadian Parking Association. As I begin my term, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to those who have come before and to those who I have the pleasure of working with in the coming years. I started my journey on the B oard of Directors not long before the COVID pandemic hit and it is because of the foresight of previous leadership that the CPA was able to weather that storm.
The latest conference in Vancouver felt like our pre-COVID conferences, attendance was back up, we had fantastic speakers and sessions, and the exhibitors were back in force. The social and networking sessions were crowded with parking industry professionals from across the country. We are looking forward to keeping the momentum rolling into Montreal next year.
In the coming months, our primary focus will be on developing the program for the 2026 Conference, which will expand and highlight the Association’s involvement in the Mobility space. Looking further forward, we hope to fostering greater engagement among our members, promoting local chapter events in the spring of 2026, and ensuring that our association continues to serve as a leading resource in our field. I encourage all members to participate actively in our events, maybe considering organizing one in their own market. We would also like to hear from more of our members and experts in the form of articles in the Parker so that the entire industry can benefit from their knowledge and experiences.
As we navigate our path forward, collaboration and open communication will be key to our success. I welcome your feedback and suggestions and, together, I am confident that we can advance our shared goals and strengthen our professional community.
I will close my first message to you with an anecdote; in 2023 I was fortunate to be able to visit Venice with my family. After a very long three-flight trip from Edmonton to Venice, we arrived in the evening and, after finding out half of our luggage did not make the last leg of the trip, we boarded the shuttle and were taken to the edge of mainland Venice before having to cross several bridges on foot to get to our hotel. When we got off the shuttle, my eye was immediately drawn to a massive multi-level parking structure located next to the end-of-the-line transit hub for land-based transportation. I started thinking about how this made so much sense for people to be able to drive and park here, and then walk or board a water taxi to venture into the original water-surrounded areas of Venice that have been made so famous in movies and tv. I examined the signage, gates, guardrails, upstands, spans, stairs, and then my wife grabbed my head and turned it to face the wonder that is Venice…yes, I am that guy.
Thank you for your continued support and commitment. I look forward to working for each of you during my term as President. n
Sincerely,

Frank Cavaliere President, Canadian Parking Association

As we navigate our path forward, collaboration and open communication will be key to our success. I welcome your feedback and suggestions and, together, I am confident that we can advance our shared goals and strengthen our professional community.


Warm wishes from us to you, as we celebrate the holiday season and look towards a healthy, happy and peaceful New Year.
Partner with the CPA to provide opportunities for growth in the coming years, bring more programming and education to CPA members and take your place as a leader in Canadian parking and mobility innovation.
Champion, Principle and Associate levels are available, and each comes with many valuable benefits for a single annual fee.
Promote your business to the parking and mobility industries in Canada by joining the CPA Partnership Program. We are keen to form strong partnerships and work with you to understand how we can create an alliance that is mutually beneficial to both parties, as well as for members of the CPA and those attending our events.
Canadians are established as leaders in North America who embrace the development and use of technology in their daily activities, and the parking industry is at the top of this field.
Partner with the CPA and gain exclusive access to this unique Canadian market and help our members to continue to be leaders of this important trend.
Demonstrate pride in supporting a Canadian association that delivers many opportunities, including the Annual Conference and Trade Show, and connect with the serious buyers you are searching for. Members of the Canadian Parking Association and stakeholders who attend this annual event are the decision makers for their organizations. Time spent networking with these delegates produces significant opportunities for vendors. Solid relationships are forged with the right people, ensuring a significant ROI to partners and exhibiting companies.
Partnership support establishes your company’s commitment to ensuring growth and profitability of this changing and diverse industry and puts your brand out front beyond the annual event through a targeted marketing program specific to the Canadian parking and mobility industry.
Establish your organization as leaders by supporting business intelligence and knowledge that will shape the future of the industry, while addressing opportunities and disruptors!
Provide mentorship in developing best practices, standards and growth for members who serve their communities through professional development opportunities offered to partners.
Enjoy significant benefits such as reduced exhibit fees, marketing opportunities, local and virtual networking events and other features included in an annual partnership.

PRESIDENT

Frank Cavaliere is the Managing Principal for RJC Engineers’ Edmonton office. A professional engineer, LEED Accredited Professional, and one of Canada’s first certified Parksmart Advisors, he is recognized for his expertise in creating innovative, sustainable, and resilient parking and structural solutions. His Parksmart designation underscores his commitment to integrating environmentally responsible practices into parking facility design and operation.
Since earning his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Alberta, Frank has dedicated his career to shaping functional, efficient, and enduring structures. He first joined RJC as a summer student assessing the condition of parking garages and later returned after graduation to pursue structural engineering full-time. His early experience on the MacEwan University parkade—where he contributed as both prime consultant and structural engineer—sparked a lasting passion for parking planning and design.
A long-time advocate for the parking industry, Frank has been an active member of the Canadian Parking Association for more than 20 years and has served on the Board of Directors since 2018. As President, he is committed to advancing the profession through innovation, sustainability, and knowledge sharing.
Outside of work, he is the proud father of two energetic children, Raffaela and Xaviero, and enjoys woodworking and restoring his 1959 Pontiac.

With more than 25 years of experience in parking operations, technology integration, and stakeholder engagement, Adamo Donatucci brings deep expertise and a collaborative approach to his role as Vice President of the Canadian Parking Association Board of Directors. As Vice President of Business Development & Stakeholder Engagement at the Toronto Parking Authority, he leads strategic initiatives that modernize parking operations and support Toronto’s growing mobility network through data-driven innovation and customer-focused solutions.
Within the Canadian Parking Association, Adamo plays a key role in uniting public and private operators and technology partners to advance the industry. He is a strong advocate for collaboration and knowledge-sharing, helping to spread innovative practices and technologies that make parking more accessible, sustainable, and efficient.
Adamo’s vision for the industry is rooted in development, collaboration, and sustainability. He is passionate about shaping the future of mobility through smarter, more connected cities where parking and transportation work in harmony to improve user experience.

James MacKay serves as President of MacKay Meters, a leading Canadian manufacturer of advanced parking and revenue control solutions. Under his leadership, the company has strengthened its reputation for innovation, reliability, and exceptional customer service—delivering smart, secure, and sustainable parking technologies to municipalities and private operators around the world.
With a background in business development, operations, and technology integration, James has played a pivotal role in modernizing MacKay Meters’ product line to meet the evolving needs of today’s connected cities. He has guided the company’s expansion into smart city infrastructure, digital payment solutions, and data-driven management systems.
Committed to fostering strong partnerships and a culture of continuous improvement, James emphasizes collaboration, accountability, and community engagement as drivers of success.

Sharon Lewinson is a transportation engineer and the CEO of RideShark, a leading Canadian SaaS company specializing in multimodal commute management, parking optimization, and transportation demand management solutions. She also serves as President of the Association for Commuter Transportation of Canada (ACT Canada). With more than 20 years of experience in sustainable transportation, she has led large-scale projects across North America, integrating technology, policy, and userfocused design.
Sharon serves on the Canadian Parking Association’s Board of Directors as Secretary, contributing technical expertise and strategic insight to support the Association’s mission and its members. She is actively involved in advancing conversations around modernization, data-driven decision-making, and the evolving intersection of parking, mobility, and sustainability.
Sharon believes the future of parking lies in fully integrated mobility systems that enhance user experience while supporting municipal, institutional, and environmental goals. Her vision for the CPA is to continue strengthening its role as a national leader in parking and mobility—fostering collaboration, promoting innovation, and equipping members to navigate a rapidly changing landscape.

Ralph Bond is a Principal with BA Consulting Group and has 51 years of experience conducting transportation planning and parking studies for public- and private-sector clients. He takes particular pride in producing strategic transportation and parking plans that support economic development and the revitalization of downtowns and emerging city centres across Canada.
Ralph is well known for sharing his knowledge of parking planning, design, management, and their connection to transportation demand management and mobility principles through numerous presentations across the country.
Actively involved with the Canadian Parking Association for more than 25 years, he has served as a board member, Treasurer, and President. He continues to support the CPA’s mission of fostering networking, knowledge-sharing, and the advancement of parking and mobility intelligence.
David Agosti is the Director of Parking and Sustainable Mobility at Simon Fraser University (SFU), overseeing all commuter-related functions across three campuses. During his decade-plus tenure, he has witnessed university transportation shift from parking-focused departments to a holistic approach that considers economic, environmental, and sociocultural impacts.
David is currently focused on the intersection of data, technology, consumer behavior, and sustainability, particularly in the areas of electrification, micro-mobility, mode shift, and connectivity.

Recognizing the CPA as Canada’s pre-eminent national organization for parking professionals, he is committed to “paying it forward” by supporting the membership as a Director on the Board. He aims to expand connections and learning opportunities across the Association’s diverse sectors.
In his personal time, David enjoys unplugging from technology and hiking into British Columbia’s backcountry.

Chris Blaschuk is the Manager of Calgary Parking at The City of Calgary. He has held this role since 2021 and has worked with the City for 22 years in various transportation and planning capacities, with a focus on parking policy since 2008. He has implemented several notable initiatives, including dynamic on-street pricing, the parking revenue reinvestment program, and reforms to the residential permit parking system. He also led the integration of the Calgary Parking Authority into The City of Calgary in 2022.
As a Director on the Canadian Parking Association Board, Chris represents the municipal sector. He launched the inaugural Calgary Chapter meeting and co-led the recent municipal roundtable at the CPA Conference in Vancouver. His vision for the Association includes developing shared outcomes and standards for municipalities and leveraging technology to make parking easier for customers.

Lisa Ciancone has spent her 33-year career with St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton, leading multiple redevelopment projects and transitioning parking services across various healthcare facilities. Her patient-centred approach emphasizes empathy, integrity, and a commitment to providing safe, efficient, and reliable parking services.
Lisa oversees parking for St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton and St. Joseph’s Health System, which includes acute care, long-term care, and home care facilities. She is particularly focused on ensuring parking revenues are reinvested to maintain high-quality, safe structures that support patients, families, and staff.
As a member of the CPA Board, Lisa brings deep expertise from the healthcare sector and aims to contribute to discussions that strengthen parking services and support the operational needs of healthcare institutions across Canada.

Sam Cusick is an Account Representative at AIMS-EDC Corporation, where he helps universities, colleges, municipalities, and private organizations implement smarter, more efficient parking solutions. Before joining AIMS, he served as Director of Parking at an Ontario university, giving him firsthand insight into the challenges of parking operations.
As a Director on the Canadian Parking Association Board, Sam enjoys connecting with professionals across the industry, sharing ideas, and supporting innovation. His vision for the CPA is to reinforce its role as a hub for professional development, collaboration, and technology adoption, ensuring members are empowered to lead the future of parking.
Committed to fostering strong partnerships and a culture of continuous improvement, James emphasizes collaboration, accountability, and community engagement as drivers of success.

Joni Eros serves as the Sales Director for Northwest North America at PayByPhone Technologies, where she leads strategic growth and partnership development across one of the company’s most dynamic regions. She works closely with municipalities, private operators, and enterprise clients to advance simple, intuitive, multilingual parking solutions.
Throughout her six-year tenure, Joni has championed community engagement, supported DEI-driven initiatives, and promoted innovative validation and marketing programs. She previously served on the Southwest Parking and Transportation Association Board and brings fresh ideas and collaborative energy to her role with the CPA.
A past recipient of the Canadian Parking Association’s Contributing Member of the Year Award (2021), she aims to inspire broader member participation, idea sharing, and recognition of operational excellence across the industry.

Nicolas Filion is the Senior Director of Technology at Agence de mobilité durable de Montréal, where he leads technological initiatives that support the development of a smart, sustainable urban mobility network. His work emphasizes the role of technology in transforming parking and mobility operations.
Nicolas began his career as a web developer and later held senior technology roles in major telecom organizations before joining the Agence as CIO. He holds a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from École de technologie supérieure and brings more than 20 years of IT and management experience.
A member of the Ordre des ingénieurs du Québec, he serves on several boards, including the Canadian Parking Association. He advocates for a data-driven, technology-supported future for the parking industry and aims to position the CPA as a key national leader in mobility innovation.

Ali Haloui serves as Deputy Director of Parking & Ground Transportation at Montréal-Trudeau International Airport (YUL), overseeing 16 parking facilities for passengers and employees. His portfolio includes commercial parking operations such as taxis, TNCs, charter buses, shuttle services, and car rentals. He also supervises multiple service providers representing hundreds of employees working onsite.
Ali holds a master’s degree in Transportation Planning and Logistics from the Université de Montréal and brings 17 years of transportation-sector experience. His background spans operations management, infrastructure consulting, and transit network planning.
He joined the Canadian Parking Association Board of Directors in October 2025 and aims to represent the airport sector while contributing to the industry’s modernization. His vision includes strengthening professional expertise across Canada, accelerating technology adoption, and expanding the CPA’s focus on mobility.

Wayne Sum is the Parking Services Manager for the City of Saskatoon, a role he has held for four years. Prior to this, he managed the City’s Vehicle for Hire Program regulating taxi and rideshare services. A former peace officer, Wayne holds several law-enforcement training certifications and is a Ministry-accredited defensive tactics instructor in Saskatchewan. He also holds an MBA from the Australian Institute of Business and is a Chartered Manager with the Canadian Institute of Management.
As a new member of the CPA and a recent addition to the Board of Directors representing Saskatchewan and Manitoba, Wayne has already co-presented “Electric Vehicles Versus Frigid Winters: Electric Vehicle Performance in Extreme Winter Conditions” at the 2024 Halifax Conference.
He envisions deepening engagement with current and prospective members across all sectors, emphasizing the value of networking, shared knowledge, and industry best practices.

Shannon Talbot is the Manager of Campus Parking Services at the University of Guelph, where she has worked for 25 years, including 19 years in parking operations. Her career has progressed from clerk to Parking Coordinator, Assistant Manager, and now department leader.
Shannon has championed numerous initiatives in innovation and sustainability, including the deployment of 50 EV charging stations, license plate recognition technology, virtual permits, cashless systems, and discounted employee bus programs.
She is an active member of the Ontario Campus Parking Association, having served as both Secretary and President.
As a Director on the Canadian Parking Association Board, Shannon aims to enhance the value of parking and mobility services nationwide while representing the needs of universities across Canada. Her vision emphasizes integrated, user-friendly systems, cross-sector collaboration, and environmental sustainability.
BY BILL FRANKLIN P.ENG.
Every enterprise encounters new challenges to their business and must innovate. Competitors with new products or services may require profound changes in the character and substance of the company to address the competition or fulfill new needs. Witness the incredible rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and the reverberations throughout industry, data analytics, media, management, and investment. Canada’s own remarkable success story, the City of Waterloo’s RIM (Research in Motion), the Blackberry, a device that found its way into the hands of people and presidents worldwide, only to come crashing down to earth with the rise of Apple’s iPhone in 2007, the brainchild of Steve Jobs.
Cities, towns and colleges have no less of a challenge. Look at the rise and fall of international students that has hugely impacted finances of universities and colleges. This large shift
in numbers has impacted everything from a drastic decline in student numbers to a major drop in parking demand and its associated revenue. Cities in particular have unique challenges getting to the finish line. Politicians change every few years, key initiatives vary in terms of substance and date, decisions more consensus based, volatile funding, public reaction unpredictable, media criticism uncomfortable. All makes for a bigger challenge than private industry generally faces.
In this series of articles, we will look at techniques to overcome the challenge of moving a promising concept to successful delivery. It is a perilous journey. A sizeable percentage of large projects in private and public enterprises will be late, over budget, have serious deficiencies and encounter scathing criticism. For example, the cost of operation may be too high, delivery of services too slow, usability unacceptable, media coverage harsh.

IN THIS SERIES OF ARTICLES, WE WILL LOOK AT TECHNIQUES TO OVERCOME THE CHALLENGE OF MOVING A PROMISING CONCEPT TO SUCCESSFUL DELIVERY.
In the Globe & Mail’s Report on Business1, an article featuring Professor Bent Flyvjerg, Oxford University, illustrates the challenges of large projects and in particular, large government projects. His research over the past 30 years finds that the vast majority of large projects hugely over promise and sizably under deliver: economic benefits are less, project costs significantly higher than anticipated, and delays accumulate into a completion date far beyond that promised. “Only 8.5% of projects hit the mark on both cost and time,” Flyvbjerg has found2
However, Bent Flyvjerg is one of many who have encountered and studied the challenge of delivering an ambitious initiative. Moreover the size of the project is relative. A small organization will struggle with a project which may be considered small to a large enterprise. None the less, the challenges are similar.
Project management is not new. Consider the Romans and their remarkable aqueducts. These magnificent engineering accomplishments carried water for dozens of kilometers or more from water sources to towns. A very famous example is the 50 km aqueduct from Fontaine d'Eure near Uzès to Nemausus (now Nîmes) built 2000 years ago. Located in Provence, France, this aqueduct carried 40,000 m3 of water every day! It required numerous bridges of which the most outstanding and famous is the Pont de Gard bridge. The bridge spans the Gardon river, with a span of 330 meters and maximum height of 50 meters.3 Page 14 shows an image the author captured in 2014.
One can imagine the scale of the challenge, design, logistics, materials, transport, people, food, sanitation, animals for transporting and lifting materials, among a myriad of other things. Your author was deeply humbled when visiting the site with his wife. We think everything today is new. It is not.
To begin, it is helpful to define an initiative that meets the criteria of a project and will require project management to deliver. Typically this is a one-off endeavour that will deliver something new or substantially new. It is not a routine daily activity such as invoicing, or policing or services or any other regular scheduled activity. Rather it is, by definition, a new initiative requiring new ideas, new techniques, new knowledge, potentially new people and, crucially, new knowledge.
• New products, systems, services Substantially new products, systems, services
• Wholly internal development Wholly external development defined and built and supplied by one vendor
• Substantial cutting edge technology
• Current technology Wholly external development with multiple vendors managed by the city
• Contract to build, where the primary design is by the City
• Public Private Partnership
• Phased development
There are other aspects of course, but the theme is the same. A new initiative that is outside of normal daily operational duties and requires skills and knowledge that is not in the organization’s normal day to day operation.
To better illustrate a realistic new initiative, let’s define a medium sized city, say 200,000 residents, that wants to completely rethink their parking: methodology, policies, pricing, parkades, facilitating downtown business and a vibrant people friendly city center. Our overriding goal will be a city where residents enjoy their forays into downtown, whether work or play, and speak highly of their city to friends and family in other cities.
Will the endeavour result in a boondoggle or bonanza?
In the next article, we will look at requisite preparatory work to lay the foundation for a successful project. n

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
1 October 2025, G&M Report on Business, “TIME TO PONI UP” by John Lorinc Pages 14-15
2 How Big Things Get Done, a 2023 book by Bent Flyvjerg & Dan Gardner that distills years of research on more than 16,000 big projects
3 Wikipedia has a superb article on the Pont de Gard bridge: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ Pont_du_Gard



Thank you to everyone who attended the Canadian Parking Association’s Annual Conference & Trade Show in Vancouver from October 5-8!
We hope you enjoyed connecting with fellow parking and mobility experts, engaging with colleagues, and meeting both long-standing and new members of the CPA community. Your participation contributed greatly to the success of the event.
A special thank you to our generous sponsors, whose support ensures that events like this continue to thrive and inspire excellence. We also extend our gratitude to the many
exhibitors who brought their cutting-edge technologies, keeping the industry ahead of the curve.
The educational sessions led by industry experts were packed with innovation, discussion, and invaluable insights. We are grateful to our speakers for sharing their knowledge and driving forward the future of parking and mobility.
Lastly, to our delegates, your engagement and participation are what make events like this so valuable. By taking part in the sessions and networking opportunities, you’re staying informed and connected. Thank you for your continued commitment to learning and growing with us.

AC DC Design Ltd.
www.park-kit.net
Advanced Polymer Technology Corp. www.advpolytech.com
AIMS (EDC Corporation) www.aimsparking.com
Amano McGann Canada Inc. www.amanomcgann.ca
CTi (Canada Ticket Inc.) www.canadaticket.com
Concord Parking Ltd. www.concordparking.com
Dimonoff www.dimonoff.com eleven-x www.eleven-x.com
FastPark Inc.
Fastpark.ca
FlashParking www.flashparking.com
gtechna, a division of Harris Computer www.gtechna.com
Genetec Inc. www.genetec.com globatech parknet.net
HONK
www.honkmobile.com
HotSpot Parking Inc. www.htsp.ca
HUB Parking Technology www.hubparking.com
J.J. MacKay Canada Ltd. www.mackaymeters.com
Mistall Insight, Inc. www.mistall.com
NEOGARD, A part of Hempel www.neogard.com
Offstreet Technology www.joinoffstreet.com
Orikan orikan.com
Parking BOXX parkingboxx.com
Parkmobile, LLC parkmobile.io
PayByPhone www.paybyphone.com
Polycrete Restorations Ltd. polycreterestorations.com
Precise Parklink www.preciseparklink.com
RideShark Corporation www.rideshark.com
Rytec Corporation www.rytecdoors.com
Scheidt & Bachmann Canada Inc.
www.scheidt-bachmann.com
SenSen.ai sensen.ai
SMART PARKING SOLUTIONS Inc.
www.smartparkingsolutions.ca
SURVISION survisiongroup.com
T2 Systems, a Verra Mobility Company www.t2systems.com
Tannery Creek Systems Inc. www.tannerycreeksystems.com
TIBA Parking Systems www.tibaparking.com
VenTek International ventek-intl.com
WPS Canada Inc. www.wpsparking.com
ZipBy USA LLC
www.zipby.com.au






SPONSORED BY:



































































The success of the Canadian Parking Association is based primarily on the continued support of its members who strive for excellence in their field. Today’s parking industry is comprised of professionals from entry level to executive across a broad range of disciplines: planners; technical and environmental developers; financial experts; designers and builders; consultants; customer service representatives, to name a few. The collaboration between these professionals drives the industry to develop and achieve strategies that enhance the communities in which we serve and heightens awareness of the parking industry in Canada.

Dominic Long and the City of Port Coquitlam have been recognized for their forward-thinking Hybrid Enforcement Model — an innovative blend of vehicle-mounted license plate recognition (LPR) and coordinated officer response that has transformed how municipal parking enforcement is delivered. By equipping patrol vehicles with real-time scanning technology, the city shifted from traditional stop-and-check methods to a dynamic, mobile detection system that identifies violations instantly and alerts nearby officers through synchronized handheld devices.
This streamlined workflow has dramatically increased coverage in high-demand zones, reduced response times from hours to minutes, and enhanced officer and public safety by limiting unnecessary stops and high-risk interactions. The system also provides timestamped, photobacked evidence, resulting in fewer disputes and greater transparency for the community.
What sets this program apart is its practical, phased approach to innovation. Instead of replacing infrastructure, Port Coquitlam integrated new tools into existing operations, pairing automated detection with human judgment through a cloud-based platform that keeps all data and teams connected in real time. The result is a modern, efficient, and highly adaptable model that other municipalities can replicate—proving that meaningful innovation doesn’t require major budgets, just smart strategy and thoughtful implementation.
Dominic Long’s leadership in bringing this system to life demonstrates a commitment to operational excellence, officer safety, and community-focused parking management. This pioneering initiative makes Port Coquitlam a deserving recipient of the Innovation in Parking Operations & Programs Award.
Karl Gallagher, a Parking/Electronic Technician with the City of Kitchener, is known for his outstanding professionalism, strong technical expertise, and unwavering commitment to customer service. Over his four years with the Parking Enterprise team, Karl has consistently exceeded expectations, approaching every challenge with calm confidence, empathy, and a solutions-focused mindset.
Whether assisting a confused visitor at a pay station, resolving equipment issues, or stepping in during high-traffic events to improve flow, Karl’s steady demeanor and respectful communication ensure customers feel supported and heard. His dedication extends beyond his regular duties — often
taking initiative to stay late, mentor new staff, or troubleshoot remotely when urgent issues arise.
Karl played a key role in the City’s recent implementation of a new license plate recognition system, taking the time to fully understand the technology and helping ensure a smooth transition across multiple facilities. His reliability, spotless safety record, and collaborative spirit have made him a trusted team member and a role model within the department.
Karl’s integrity, technical skill, and genuine care for the community embody the best of municipal service. He is a deserving recipient of the Parking Staff Member of the Year Award.


April Parr-Pearson embodies the highest standard of leadership, professionalism, and service excellence in the parking industry. With an extraordinary 39-year career at EasyPark, April has become the steady force behind one of Canada’s most complex and high-profile parking facilities — the 1,800-stall CF Pacific Centre Parkade in downtown Vancouver. Her ability to manage a demanding, fast-paced environment with calm confidence and unwavering attention to detail has earned her the trust of tenants, retailers, contractors, and colleagues alike.
April oversees every aspect of site operations, from customer service and tenant support to access control systems, EV infrastructure, complex deliveries, and large-scale construction coordination. Known for her adaptability, she has expertly guided the site through multiple technology transitions — including gate system upgrades, LPR integrations, mobile payments, and validation platforms — all while minimizing
disruption and ensuring her team and customers remain supported and informed.
Her leadership extends far beyond technical expertise. April is a mentor, a problem-solver, and a grounding presence during challenging situations such as civic events, protests, and downtown emergencies. She leads with empathy and fairness, fosters strong relationships across the CF Pacific Centre community, and consistently elevates operational standards through thoughtful feedback and continuous improvement.
Respected across EasyPark for her integrity, knowledge, and dedication, April has shaped the culture of her team and contributed immeasurably to the success of one of Vancouver’s most iconic parking facilities. Her decades of service, outstanding leadership, and commitment to excellence make her a truly deserving recipient of the Parking Supervisor of the Year Award.
Bill Franklin
Tannery Creek Systems
Bill Franklin stands as one of the most influential innovators in the Canadian parking and mobility landscape. As the founder of Tannery Creek Systems and the visionary behind AutoChalk, Bill has made a profound and lasting impact on how enforcement teams operate across Canada and beyond. What began as a bold idea two decades ago has grown into an industry-standard platform that transformed the way municipalities, universities, hospitals, airports, and private operators manage parking with accuracy, efficiency, and fairness.
Since launching Tannery Creek in 2004, Bill has led the development and evolution of AutoChalk — the world’s first digital chalking solution and the foundation of what we now recognize as EChalking.
Under his guidance, the system expanded into a powerful suite of tools, integrating automatic license plate recognition, real-time violation detection, analytics, reporting, and cloud-based management. His ability to foresee industry needs and create practical, scalable technology has elevated enforcement operations across North America.
Bill’s influence extends well beyond product innovation. A dedicated advocate for the parking profession, he has been an active contributor through the Canadian Parking Association, the International Parking & Mobility Institute, and numerous industry forums. Whether presenting at conferences, supporting working groups, writing technical articles, or mentoring peers, he has consistently championed

knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
His work has empowered organizations large and small to improve compliance, reduce operational costs, and deliver better service to their communities. More importantly, Bill’s leadership, generosity, and passion for advancing the profession have earned him deep respect across the sector.
Bill Franklin’s career is a testament to innovation, perseverance, and impact. His contributions have fundamentally shaped modern parking operations, making him a truly deserving recipient of the Ted Seeberg Award for Outstanding Contribution.



Guelph, ON, November 3, 2025 — HONK, North America’s leading provider of contactless payments for parking and mobility, is helping the City of Guelph modernize its downtown parkades by removing physical gates and introducing a digital payment system. The city has removed aging gate infrastructure, cutting maintenance costs and improving traffic flow for drivers entering and exiting facilities.
Frequent parkers can continue to use the HONK app for quick, account-based payments, while visitors and guests can simply scan a QR code to pay via guest checkout — no app download or account required. For those who prefer to pay on-site, pay stations remain available. By removing gates and ticket machines, the City is eliminating delays at entry and exit, improving traffic flow, and reducing the ongoing costs that come with maintaining physical infrastructure.
“At the end of the day, it’s about making parking simpler for drivers and easier for the city to manage,” said Ashley Kassian, Program Manager, Operations Administration at the City of Guelph. “Removing gates and aging hardware frees up time, resources, and funds for other important municipal initiatives.”
HONK has been powering digital parking payments in Guelph since 2021. This latest step marks the next evolution of the City’s partnership with HONK — one built on efficiency, flexibility, and innovation.
“We love to see cities like Guelph embracing the shift to gateless and barrier-free parking,” said Michael Back, CEO of HONK. “By replacing aging infrastructure with digital payments, they’re helping residents and visitors get in and out faster — and leading the way for other cities to follow.”



BY LUI VENIR
As urban areas grow and sustainability becomes a greater focus, parking facility operators are looking for ways to support greener commuting habits. One practical and effective solution is to introduce a carpool parking section, dedicated spaces reserved for vehicles with multiple occupants. This approach not only promotes eco-friendly travel but also improves parking efficiency and user satisfaction.
In this article, we explore the benefits of adding a carpool parking section to your facility and how it can enhance both operational performance and environmental impact.
Providing a carpool parking section supports efforts to reduce singleoccupancy vehicle use, one of the leading contributors to traffic congestion and carbon emissions. When commuters know they’ll have access to convenient, priority parking, they’re more likely to share rides with coworkers, neighbours, or friends. Over time, this shift can help lower vehicle emissions, reduce fuel consumption, and support city-wide sustainability initiatives.
Carpool parking can also help improve overall parking facility utilization. By incentivizing shared rides, fewer vehicles occupy the same number of available spaces. This approach is particularly valuable in high-demand areas, such as universities, corporate campuses, and downtown parking structures, where available space is often limited. Reduced vehicle volume can ease congestion and create a smoother parking experience for all users.

By supporting shared transportation, parking operators can help drive meaningful change while enhancing the overall user experience

Offering a carpool parking option demonstrates a commitment to community well-being. It shows that the facility operator values environmental responsibility and commuter convenience. These initiatives align well with broader corporate social responsibility goals, particularly for businesses aiming to reduce their environmental footprint and promote sustainable commuting options for employees.
Priority carpool parking spots, often located near entrances or exits, reward ride-sharers with quicker access and a more seamless parking experience. This convenience can make a more meaningful difference for daily commuters, boosting overall satisfaction and loyalty among regular parkers.
For property owners pursuing sustainability certifications such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), designated carpool parking can contribute to earning valuable points under the “Alternative Transportation” credit category. Incorporating these spaces not only benefits the environment but also enhances the facility’s reputation as a forward-thinking, eco-conscious operation.
Implementing a carpool parking section is a simple yet strategic enhancement that complements other modern parking initiatives, such as EV charging stations, smart signage, and digital permit management. Together, these solutions create a more efficient, sustainable, and user-friendly facility.
Incorporating carpool parking into your facility is more than just an operational improvement; it’s a visible commitment to sustainability, efficiency, and community impact. By supporting shared transportation, parking operators can help drive meaningful change while enhancing the overall user experience. n
Andrew. (2025, February 23). Make park visits easier: Smart carpool parking that actually works. Frontenac and Ontario Parks. https://www.frontenacpark.ca/ sustainable-park-access/make-park-visits-easier-smartcarpool-parking-that-actually-works/
Liftango. (2023, December 12). Why carpooling is a sustainable solution for solving parking issuesliftango. RSS. https://www.liftango.com/resources/ why-carpooling-is-a-sustainable-solution-for-solvingparking-issues
USGBC. (n.d.-a). https://www.usgbc.org/credits/ existing-buildings-schools-existing-buildings-retailexisting-buildings-data-centers-exis-41

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Lui Venir, Account Executive, Precise ParkLink
Connect with Lui on LinkedIn
BY BRENDA HANNA
ASearch... Man in Parking Garage

s a graphic designer who has spent more than twenty years sourcing images for the Canadian Parking Association, I’ve developed an unusual superpower: I can predict exactly how a stock photography website is going to misrepresent parking before I even press “search.”
After two decades of scrolling through dark garages, confused drivers, fictional technology, and now AI-generated winter scenes that would give any operator a heart attack, one thing has become abundantly clear:
Stock photography has never really understood parking, and it certainly has never understood mobility.
What follows is a tour through the wonderfully inaccurate visual history of our industry — and why these images matter far more than most people realize.
When stock platforms first emerged, searching for “parking garage” dropped you straight into a low-budget crime film. The results were comically predictable: shadowy parkades, women clutching their purses while glancing nervously over their shoulder, lurking silhouettes behind concrete pillars, and inexplicable fog. Always fog.
These weren’t just clichés. They reinforced a fear-based narrative that parking was unsafe at a time when operators were actively improving lighting, visibility, and security — and what’s surprising is that this type of imagery still appears in stock libraries today.

AI prompt: Urban winter scene, show pedestrians and vehicles
In many ways, it continues to shape public perception long after the industry has evolved.
When mobile payment hit the industry, stock libraries had a perfect opportunity to visually explain how the new process actually worked. Instead, many of the images created more confusion than clarity.
A typical search for “mobile parking payment” would show drivers trying to complete a payment while in motion, distracted at the wheel, and very few visuals accurately represented the real steps involved. Even today, most stock sites still don’t reflect the actual process.
The industry’s message was simple: park first, then pay — safely, on foot, and using the posted instructions. Stock photos tells a very different story.
The challenge becomes even more obvious when sourcing imagery for the mobility sector. Simply typing in the word “mobility” triggers a wave of images that have nothing to do with our industry. Stock libraries overwhelmingly associate mobility with aching joints, physiotherapy sessions, wheelchairs, seniors using walkers, and medical or clinical scenes.
In addition to providing safe and accessible parking for persons with disabilities, our industry deals with shared transportation, curbside management, micromobility, EV infrastructure, transit integration, digital payment ecosystems, urban movement, and the way parking interacts with all of these. We talk about mobility in terms of systems, networks, urban flow, and customer experience.
The disconnect is enormous, and it makes visually representing modern mobility incredibly challenging.
AI-assisted imagery was supposed to elevate stock photography and correct long-standing inaccuracies. Instead, it created a new category I can only describe as “pedestrians behaving recklessly in winter.”
In a recent search for “urban parking in winter,” AI confidently placed pedestrians strolling in live traffic, standing directly in front of moving vehicles, crossing icy lanes while holding lattes, or simply ignoring perfectly clear sidewalks. It’s as if AI learned urban behaviour from a video game tutorial.
This isn’t just comical — it’s unsafe. And it raises a bigger concern: if AI is training itself on decades of already-inaccurate stock images, we risk creating a visual feedback loop that becomes more unrealistic with every generation.
Even now, as parking evolves into a safe, data-driven, technology-enabled component of city mobility, stock imagery remains stuck in the past. Searches still return neon-lit dystopias, cinematic fog, garages that do not resemble real facilities, and mobility results that look more like healthcare brochures than integrated transportation networks.


In short, the visuals are not keeping up with the industry transformation.
Why These Visuals Actually Matter
It’s easy to laugh — and trust me, I often do — but the implications are real. Images influence how the public interprets safety, technology, pedestrian behaviour, curbside operations, the relationship between parking and mobility, and the broader role of parking in modern city movement. When stock photography shows parking as dark, confusing, outdated, chaotic, or technologically incorrect, it reinforces misconceptions at the exact moment the industry is becoming safer, smarter, and more integrated.
We are building modern mobility ecosystems, yet stock photos are still stuck in the early 2000s.
As curbside management evolves and mobility becomes inseparable from parking, our imagery needs to reflect that reality. We need visuals that depict well-lit, welcoming facilities, pedestrians using actual sidewalks, realistic winter behaviour, accurate mobile-payment interactions, true curbside operations, and parking as a connected, essential part of urban mobility.
If stock photography starts reflecting reality instead of outdated tropes, public understanding will shift with it.
Until then, I’ll keep scrolling, keep searching, and keep championing imagery that shows who we really are today:
Modern. Integrated. Essential to how cities move.
I’ve included a few sample images from these stock photo searches so you can witness the chaos firsthand n


As we approach the annual membership renewal period, the Canadian Parking Association (CPA) invites all members to review and renew their commitment for the upcoming year. Ensuring your company profile, members and contact list are up to date before the 2026 renewal deadline will help maximize your association experience and streamline communications for the year ahead.
The CPA offers a thoughtfully designed membership structure to accommodate the diverse needs of organisations and individuals in the Parking and Mobility sector across Canada. Membership categories are tailored to reflect the unique needs of each member, regardless of the size of the organization and the number of employees that will benefit from being a member.
Membership is anchored to your company; however, the organization is not the member – in fact, the employees in the company are the members.
Each organization has one Class A member. This person is Main Contact and is the voting member for the company in matters pertaining to association business such as the Annual General Meeting, association governance, etc.
Additional employees can then be added. These are classified as Class B members, and enjoy all the benefits of membership but, unless by proxy, do not have voting privileges. Staff who should receive CPA communications and event invitations but are not members can also be included as Contacts.
Membership Categories ranging from a single person membership to over 20 members are available to facilitate the best option for your company based on the size and

number of members, allowing multiple representatives to access CPA benefits and resources’
Each category is designed to foster connection, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing, ensuring that all members benefit from the CPA’s national reach and resources.
To ensure seamless communication and full access to member benefits, it is essential that your company profile and contact list are accurate and up to date. Here’s how you can review and update your information:
1. Log in to the CPA Member Portal using your login credentials.
2. Navigate to the “Company Profile” section and review details such as company name, location, members, and contacts.
3. Verify that all non-member contacts listed are current employees who should receive CPA communications and event invitations.
4. Edit or remove outdated contact information, and add new representatives as needed. *Member changes are subject to certain conditions.
5. Save your changes and confirm that your profile reflects your organization’s current structure.
Keeping your information current not only ensures that you receive timely updates but also helps CPA tailor its services to meet your needs. It is advisable to identify one employee other than the Main Contact as a Main Other contact, or Main Accounting contact, to ensure communications, invoices are not missed.
The diversity of CPA members ensures that all aspects of the industry are represented, and we appreciate our Members’ support.
Notices for 2026 have been distributed for renewal on January 1, 2026. Thanks to those who have confirmed their membership for the new year. If you did not receive your renewal notice, please let us know.
For assistance, contact info@canadianparking.ca

Membership renewal for the 2026 calendar year has commenced, with renewal notices sent on December 2, 2025. Here are the key dates and steps to follow:
Review Period: Now until December 31, 2025: update your profile and contact list in the Member Portal; remit your dues payment. Ensure dues are paid to maintain uninterrupted access to CPA member benefits.
• Due Date: January 1, 2026.
• Deadline for Changes: January 31, 2026
• Confirmation: Upon receipt of payment, your membership will be active for the coming year.
Prompt payment of annual dues is vital to the CPA’s sustainability and effective operation. Member dues directly support:
Development of publications, educational and networking programs, and industry-leading research
• Organization of national conferences, workshops, and webinars
• Maintenance and upgrades of member services and administrative operations
Your timely payment ensures the CPA can continue to provide high-value programming and remain a strong, unified voice for the industry.
As a CPA member, you are part of a vibrant national network that offers:
Exclusive access to industry news, best practices, and research
• Opportunities to connect with peers, thought leaders, and innovators across Canada
• Participation in professional development and training tailored to the Parking and Mobility sector
Visibility for your company or organization through CPA events, publications, and online directories
• Technical Bulletins
Member discounts for all events and programs
Membership in the CPA not only strengthens your professional network but also elevates your organization’s profile and influence within the industry.
Renewing your CPA membership is a valuable investment in your organisation’s future and in the collective advancement of the Parking and Mobility industry in Canada.
For assistance or questions regarding the renewal process, please contact us info@canadianparking.ca.
Thank you for your ongoing support, and we look forward to another successful year with you.
NOT A MEMBER? Visit canadianparking.ca to learn more about the benefits of becoming a member of the Canadian Parking Association.
CANADA – December 3, 2025
– PayByPhone, a global leader in mobile parking payments, has signed a strategic global partnership agreement with Designa, a global leader in fully automated parking systems for more than 70 years. The agreement aims to provide PayByPhone users a frictionless entry and exit at off-street gated garages – including airports, hotels, shopping centers and hospitals – thanks to integration with Designa‘s intelligent parking management solutions delivered through PayByPhone’s AutoPay function.
Anthony Cashel, Chief Operating Officer, PayByPhone, says, “This strategic partnership with a global market leader like Designa further cements not only our commitment to simplify our users’ journeys but also continues to expand significantly our global influence and scope in gated off-street parking. Today we are delivering a truly frictionless, integrated experience for our drivers that is backed by intelligent, connected solutions.”
Christian Grzona, Chief Digital Officer, Designa, says, “"This partnership reflects Designa's commitment to delivering integrated solutions that simplify everyday life for parking operators. With the connection of PayByPhone's parking use-cases to Designa PARKETPLACE® we enable our customer base to unlock the massive potential from the PayByPhone user base for their parking asset and digitalize more parking transactions."
The first city to benefit from the partnership between PayByPhone and Designa is Nuremberg, Germany. Other locations across Germany, Austria and then North America, France, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom will follow.
To use AutoPay, drivers simply opt-in in the PayByPhone app before starting their journey. Once activated, they can enter and exit participating garages without taking a ticket, visiting pay stations, or even opening the app.
To learn more about PayByPhone, visit www. paybyphone.com. Follow PayByPhone on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

The Parking Management Certification program (PMC) addresses the training needs of management teams and front-line supervisors who oversee parking operations.
This program sets performance and service standards at the point where the parking operation, technology, mobility, and the customer meet. The PMC credential is the standard by which performance can be measured.
Recognized as the benchmark for supervisory and management level employees in the Canadian parking industry, the program offers candidates a comprehensive study program that includes relevant and essential aspects of a standard parking operation.
The course is designed for quality and fairness in assessing the skill set for the industry and may be used by employers to evaluate candidates during the hiring processes.
The study materials and examination outline contain information fundamental to the defined roles and responsibilities of parking managers. Content has been compiled from a cross-section of parking professionals from Canada and has been updated to include current information relative to today’s parking industry.
OPERATIONS: Types, Design, Regulations, Loss Prevention, Equipment/Systems/Technology, Safety
REVENUE CONTROL: Accounting, Auditing
MOBILITY MANAGEMENT (TDM)
CUSTOMER SERVICE
MARKETING/ADMINISTRATION
MAINTENANCE
HUMAN RESOURCES
The computerized PMC examination is composed of 150 four-option multiple-choice questions and is administered during a 3-hour testing session held in close proximity to the candidate’s home or workplace.
Holders of current CCPFM designation will be offered a discounted fee to study the revised materials and retake the examination. If certification has lapsed, full fees will apply.
The Canadian Parking Association, as the national authority for the industry in Canada, has the authority to grant or rescind the use of the professional designation of Parking Management Certification “PMC” to candidates who successfully complete the program.
Registration & Information
canadianparking.ca/pmc/
TRAINING DESIGNED FOR FRONTLINE EXCELLENCE

The Parking Operations Primer (POP) is a training program developed by the Canadian Parking Association to assist with orienting new frontline staff and supervisors to the fundamentals of a parking operation.
Whether you’re onboarding new hires or refreshing your experienced team, POP is a versatile and essential tool for organizations across the parking industry.
Introduce recent hires to their new job
Re-energize longterm front-line staff
POP introduces the student to parking topics such as:
Train supervisory-level employees new to parking
• Customer Service: who’s, what’s, where’s, when’s, and why’s of service delivery
• Customer Care: how to manage difficult, angry, upset, and happy customers
• Cash Environment: handling techniques, safety, security, accountability
• Compliance: do’s and don’ts, ticket basics, appeals procedures
• Basic Equipment Maintenance: troubleshooting and repairs
• Vehicle Operations: valet parking, stacking, clearances
TESTING
• 45 multiple-choice questions
• 1.5-hour testing session
• 70% required to pass
• Online test scheduling within 2 months of receiving study materials FEES
• CPA Members: $360
• Non-Members: $435
• 10% discount for 10+ applicants from the same company
Successful candidates receive a framed certificate and will be featured in CPA publications (opt-out available).
Apply today: canadianparking.ca/pop
Phone: 613-727-0700
Email: info@canadianparking.ca
canadianparking.ca/pop



