At the Ordinary Meeting on November 20, 2024, Kiama Municipal Council reviewed and approved a comprehensive report on parking and traffic access prepared by the Infrastructure and Livability Advisory Committee. The report proposes significant changes aimed at improving parking efficiency, enhancing safety, and addressing the growing pressures of population growth and tourism in the Kiama Local Government Area (LGA).  

Key Recommendations:  

1. Expanded Parking Study Area: Extend study boundaries from Kiama Township to include Blowhole Point, Havilah Place, and Barney Street.  

2. Parking and Traffic Hierarchy: Develop tailored parking and traffic control strategies for Kiama and villages like Gerringong, Jamberoo, and Kiama Downs.  

3. Improved Signage and Wayfinding: Upgrade signage and integrate parking data into navigation apps (Google Maps, Waze) to better publicise and manage available parking.  

4. Safety Enhancements: Remove non-compliant rumble strips and upgrade pedestrian crossings to meet Australian standards.  

5. Long-Term Strategies: Consider building an underground car park at Hindmarsh Park and a multi-storey facility at Havilah Place to address peak demand sustainably.  

6. Temporary Measures: Replace parking lost during developments at Akuna Street and allow public use of council staff car parks outside business hours.  

Addressing Challenges  

The report identifies increasing weekday tourism and upcoming construction projects as contributors to parking stress. It also highlights the need for stricter enforcement of time limits and the potential for revenue from improved ranger activity.  

Vision for the Future  

With a focus on sustainable urban mobility, the report outlines a 15-20 year vision to support the growing needs of residents and visitors. Proposed facilities at Hindmarsh Park and Havilah Place could incorporate paid parking, improve traffic flow, and free up public spaces, aligning with Kiama’s commitment to livability and tourism.