Expansion Of License Plate Recognition System

The City of Hamilton announced the expansion of the License Plate Recognition [LPR] system at Number 1 Car Park on Monday, 2 March 2026 marking the third phase of the City’s broader smart parking initiative.

A spokesperson said, “This follows the well-received deployment of the same system at Par-la-Ville car park in April of this year and #5 Car Park on Front Street in 2024.

“LPR technology simplifies and modernizes the parking experience by using cameras at entry and exit points to scan vehicle license plates. The system automatically calculates parking duration and requests payment, eliminating the need for physical tickets.

“Developed by Mobile Smart City, the LPR system was first introduced at #5 Car Park in January 2024. A two-month trial period allowed for user feedback, which informed minor upgrades and operational refinements to enhance the user experience. Since then, the system has been operating successfully and has been well received by the public for its convenience and efficiency.

“Payment Options:

1. LPR:
• Approach the gate and select ‘press to enter’ on the touchscreen
• The system reads your license plate, raises the barrier, and allows access.
• When exiting, the camera scans your plate, calculates the duration of your stay, and requests payment on the screen. Payment can be made by swiping or tapping a credit or debit card [it is a cashless system]. For stays under 15 minutes, the barrier will open without a payment request.

Or

2. Pango Parking App:
• Download the free Pango Parking app [available on your phone’s app store] before entering the car park.
• At the gate, scan your individual QR code using the red-light scanner to enter.
• When exiting, scan the same QR code, and payment will be processed automatically through the app, linked to your credit card.

“On Sundays and public holidays parking is free. Users must select a payment option upon entry, but no fee will be charged upon exit.

“For monthly, annual, and commercial permit holders, the system provides seamless access by automatically recognizing license plates [no need to touch the machine at all]. Vehicles on pre-approved access lists, such as emergency services and Corporation of Hamilton vehicles, will also benefit from automatic entry. Temporary or long-term additions to the access list can be managed easily through the system.

“Bike parking at Par-la-Ville remains unchanged and is not affected by the LPR transition.”

Traffic Manager, Fred Richardson said, “Switching to digital is a big step toward smarter parking in Hamilton, No paper, fewer headaches, and a much quicker process for drivers. We’re committed to creating a car park system that feels modern, reliable, and efficient for all.”

The spokesperson said, “This initiative reflects the City of Hamilton’s commitment to modernizing its infrastructure, enhancing the user experience, and preparing for scalable Smart City solutions. The LPR system allows for flexible updates and future technology integrations as needed.

“We thank the public for their continued cooperation and patience as we roll out these improvements. For assistance navigating the new system, please contact the City’s Parking Management team at 531-5254.”

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Category: All, technology