Patients and visitors to three of Brightshores Health System's hospitals will have to pay more to park as of Wednesday.
The hospital network in Grey and Bruce counties announced the price hike at the Meaford, Owen Sound, and Wiarton hospitals as it continues to face significant financial pressures, including increasing operating costs.
Starting Wednesday, the cost of a day parking pass will rise from $9 to $10.50. The cost per hour will be $3, while the price for a five day pass goes to $26, a 10 day pass to $52, and a 30 day pass to $63.50. The first 30 minutes of parking will remain free and there will be no change to the cost of parking passes for patients actively receiving dialysis or oncology treatment.
"Revenue generated from parking helps offset the costs of operating and maintaining parking facilities, including snow clearing, lighting, repairs, and ongoing management," Brightshores said in a statement. "Once these costs are covered, additional revenue is reinvested directly into patient care and hospital services, helping us continue to provide high-quality care for our community."
This is the first parking rate increase at the three hospitals since September 2022.
Free visitor parking will continue to be offered at Brightshores' Southampton, Lion’s Head and Markdale sites.
