Maple Ridge, B.C., April 23, 2025 – Visitors to downtown Maple Ridge can enjoy free weekend underground parking at the Maple Ridge Business Centre (MRBC) starting this Saturday, just in time for the Celebrate Earth Day festival, Haney Farmers Market kickoff and Social Saturdays.
Approved by Council this week, this new initiative will run weekends from late April to October 31 as part of the City’s Be Downtown strategy to enhance the Town Centre and draw more residents and visitors. Located at 22470 Dewdney Trunk Road, the MRBC underground parkade has 384 public spaces and is steps away from Memorial Peace Park, the ACT Arts Centre, the Leisure Centre and dozens of businesses offering shopping, dining and other services.
“We want to make it easier for people to come downtown, stay longer and explore all that our Downtown has to offer,” said Mayor Dan Ruimy. “By removing parking fees on weekends, we’re encouraging more visitors to shop, dine and enjoy local events—ultimately supporting our small businesses and creating a more vibrant economy. We invite everyone to come downtown this weekend for Celebrate Earth Day and the return of the weekly Haney Farmers Market and Social Saturdays.”
The decision to offer free weekend parking was based on feedback from local businesses, event organizers, and community members who identified affordable parking as a key barrier to downtown access during peak times. The reduction in annual parking revenue (approximately $23,000 to $31,000 annually) is considered a modest investment toward boosting local economic activity.
Social Saturdays Return
As part of the Be Downtown initiative, Social Saturdays are also back, running April 26 through October 25. Each Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Memorial Peace Park will be transformed into a pedestrian-only space to encourage safe outdoor gatherings. Visitors can enjoy picnics, shop at the Haney Farmers Market, or take in one of the many festivals happening throughout the season, including this weekend’s Celebrate Earth Day.
Vehicles will not be allowed in the park during these hours, including the Haney Place Loop near the front entrances of the Maple Ridge Leisure Centre and ACT Arts Centre. Access to these facilities and businesses is available from McIntosh Avenue.
We’re inviting residents and visitors to take advantage of the vibrant events, markets, and activities happening each weekend,” said Cidalia Martin, Director of Recreation Services. “While the temporary road closures may require some planning, we’ve ensured alternative access is available—and we hope everyone will join us in making the most of these community-focused Saturdays.”
Parking and Alternative Access
Underground parking is accessible via Dewdney Trunk Road and Edge Street. For overheight vehicles, accessible parking is available in the MRBC parkade, near the Haney Place Bus Exchange, and along 224 Street.
EV Charging Stalls: Users must register for a free session at the designated parking meter. A 4-hour maximum parking limit applies.
Regular Stalls: Free to use. No registration or license plate entry required.
The parkade is open daily from 5:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. No overnight parking is permitted after 11:00 p.m.
Event Season Starts Now
Free parking and Social Saturdays are just the beginning of a packed calendar of events in Maple Ridge. For a full list of what’s happening this season, visit MapleRidge.ca/Events.
For additional information, contact Cidalia Martin, Director of Recreation Services at PRC@MapleRidge.ca.
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Media contact:
Pardeep Purewal, Senior Manager Corporate Communications and Public Engagement
T 604 466 4319 C 778 955 4249 E Media@MapleRidge.ca