VANCOUVER: BC Hydro's free online parking reservation system returns to Buntzen Lake on May 15 for a fourth consecutive year. The reservation system has successfully reduced traffic congestion in Anmore by more than 90 per cent since its implementation and ensures emergency crews always have unobstructed access to the site.
"With more than 700,000 visitors each year, Buntzen Lake remains our busiest public use area and we are committed to helping as many visitors as possible enjoy the site safely," said Matt Wilson, Senior Vice-President of Safety at BC Hydro. "The parking reservation system has been instrumental in managing peak-season traffic, easing the strain on the surrounding community and making sure more people can access Buntzen Lake."
Starting May 14, drivers can visit bchydro.com/buntzen or use the Yodel app to reserve a parking spot. Passes are released daily at 7:00 a.m. for the following day, and visitors can choose a morning, afternoon or full-day pass. Drivers are encouraged to cancel their reservation if they are unable to attend, allowing others to secure a spot. Reservations are linked to vehicle license plates and mobile phone numbers and are non-transferable.
Visitors will need a user account to make reservations, which will be validated through a unique QR code on each parking pass. Drivers will need to present a screenshot or a printout of their QR code to be scanned at the Buntzen Lake gate. Those arriving without a reservation will not be able to enter and vehicles that have not left the parking lot by the time their pass expires, may be towed.
"Buntzen Lake's beautiful hiking trails, public beaches and swimming areas make it a popular summer destination for people and families from across Metro Vancouver and B.C.," said Rick Glumac, MLA for Port Moody-Burquitlam. "With the number of visitors increasing every year, the reservation system allows people to plan their visits and arrive knowing they'll have access to the site."
Introduced in 2022, the reservation system includes dynamic pass management, ensuring more passes are released throughout the day if cancellations are made. Visitors entering the park by foot, bike or public transit are not required to make reservations and do not need a reservation to access the site.
"The Buntzen Lake reservation system continues to play an important role in supporting safety and reducing traffic impacts in our community during the busy summer season," said John McEwen, Mayor of Anmore. "We value BC Hydro's ongoing efforts to review and refine the program to ensure it remains accessible and well-managed for all who come to enjoy the lake and its trails."
The online parking reservation system opens May 14, and parking reservations will be required to access the parking lot starting May 15 and will remain in effect until September 1. For more information, visit bchydro.com/buntzen.
Contact:
BC Hydro Media Relations
Email: media@bchydro.com
Phone: 604 928 6468