Montreal restores free parking at Claude-Robillard Sports Complex

Free parking has returned to the Claude-Robillard Sports Complex after the city reversed a policy that had frustrated residents. (Scott Prouse/CTV News)

Montreal Mayor Soraya Martinez Ferrada says she’s fulfilling another campaign promise by making parking at the Claude-Robillard Sports Complex in Ahuntsic-Cartierville free again.

The measure came into effect on March 4.

The parking now consists of 324 free spaces, which the City of Montreal says will improve access to the complex’s sports facilities.

Built for the 1976 Olympic Games, the complex is a major multisport centre that offers a wide variety of physical activities and hosts both high-level competitions and local sporting events.

“Restoring free parking at the Claude-Robillard Sports Complex was one of the promises we made to families, for whom it was becoming a real headache in terms of organization,” Martinez Ferrada said.

“Children, adults and athletes of all ages can once again get there more easily and enjoy all the activities offered by the Claude-Robillard Complex.”

Ahuntsic-Cartierville Mayor Maude Théroux-Séguin lamented that the paid parking had become a source of frustration for both borough residents and Montrealers alike.

“The addition of parking meters had also created an overflow onto the neighbourhood streets, increasing traffic and making parking difficult for residents,” she said. “Returning to free parking was a necessary decision. It is a gesture in support of sports and will ease traffic on our small residential streets.”