Edmonton commuters could reserve a stall at Park and Ride lots for a $40 monthly fee if city council approves a recommendation in a report to the transportation committee.

The report, released Thursday, suggests a monthly premium pass that would apply to 15 per cent of the stalls at LRT stations.

"My first reaction is, no, I may not support that, but it is a little more innovative," said Coun. Kim Krushell.

"I think of it kind of like going to Disneyland or Universal Studios. If you go to Universal Studios and you pay for that premium pass, well, you do get better access. So some people like to do that, and if people are willing to pay, maybe that makes sense."

Parking at Park and Ride lots at the Clareview, Stadium and Belvedere LRT stations is free now. Charging for a stall was first brought up to council in the spring.

The charge would be aimed at defraying the costs of building and maintaining the stalls. That can run from $7,255-$15,490 each year for a paved spot, according to the report by city staff.

Problems with enforcement

The report says Park and Ride lots are often full by 8 a.m. during fall and winter, when students are in class. But it warns that when Calgary introduced a $3 fee for Park and Ride stalls, use dropped by 40 per cent.

It says a similar drop could be expected in Edmonton because of the number of inexpensive parking lots available downtown.

Krushell also foresees problems with enforcement. "What's going to happen when a citizen who hasn't paid parks right in your stall? Are we going to get in the business of enforcing that? I highly doubt it."

The fee proposal will be discussed Oct. 20 by council's transportation committee. If approved, it could be in place by early next year.