Construction changes parking layout; GOVA Transit offered as an alternative
Ongoing infrastructure work around the downtown Event Centre has prompted the City of Sudbury to adjust vehicular access and municipal parking arrangements as the fall event season begins.
Sections of Shaughnessy Street have been physically separated and closed by barriers in recent weeks to accommodate construction related to the Event Centre. To help maintain traffic flow and access to municipal lots, the city has added an additional access point to the Shaughnessy East Lot via Van Horne Street.
Where to park and how to pay
The city says municipal parking is still available at a number of locations across the downtown core. Key municipal lots named by the city include the CP Rail/Elgin Street Lot, the Shaughnessy East Lot and the Tom Davies Square Underground Lot. Drivers should expect changes to traffic patterns near the construction area and are advised to follow signage on site.
- Payment by app: HotSpot Parking App — enter your licence plate number, the lot number and pay using a credit card or Visa Debit.
- Pay stations: Use coins or card at parking pay stations located in municipal lots.
| Parking location | Notes |
|---|---|
| CP Rail/Elgin Street Lot | Municipal lot serving downtown destinations |
| Shaughnessy East Lot | Additional access point added on Van Horne Street due to Shaughnessy Street traffic control |
| Tom Davies Square Underground Lot | Underground municipal parking available |
Public transit as an option
GOVA Transit is being promoted by the city as an alternative way to reach events, restaurants, businesses and entertainment venues in the downtown. With ongoing work on the Event Centre, transit can avoid the uncertainty of changing driving routes and reduced curbside access around construction zones.
What this means for residents and visitors
Changes to downtown access during construction tend to concentrate traffic onto fewer streets and can make short-term parking and curbside drop-off more difficult. For those heading downtown for festivals, shows or routine errands, the city’s information suggests planning ahead: know which lot you intend to use, carry the necessary payment method for pay stations or install and register the HotSpot Parking app in advance.
Local businesses and event organisers typically expect higher foot traffic in the fall months and are urging patrons to allow extra time for travel and parking. The City of Sudbury’s guidance is intended to reduce circulation problems around the work zone and keep downtown moving while construction continues.
Motorists should watch for temporary traffic signs and barriers, and follow directions from on-site personnel where present. Those with accessibility needs should check specific lot access and routes in advance, as temporary closures can alter the most direct paths to building entrances.
For more detailed instructions on HotSpot Parking, drivers can visit the app provider’s website or download the HotSpot app from app stores to set up their licence plate and payment method ahead of a trip downtown.
As the Event Centre project progresses, the city is expected to update traffic and parking information. Sudbury residents and visitors are advised to check municipal notices and GOVA Transit schedules before travel.
