Skip to Content
Streetsblog USA home
Streetsblog USA home
Log In

"Minimum parking requirements act like a fertility drug for cars," Donald Shoup wrote in his celebrated investigation of parking economics, The High Cost of Free Parking. The above video, from the city of Ottawa, does a good job explaining exactly why that is and the problems it causes.

Ottawa commissioned the animation to explain why its 1960s-era parking regulations need rethinking if the city is going to be a walkable place. But the same principles apply to cities everywhere.

Hat tip: City Obseratory

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog USA

Report: Speed Cameras Working in San Francisco, Floundering in Bureaucracy in L.A.

Great progress and success in the Bay Area, while So Cal lags.

December 11, 2025

Thursday’s Headlines See Trouble Ahead, Trouble Behind

Yes, it's political, but transit agencies are still going to have to grapple with the perception that it's unsafe.

December 11, 2025

Wednesday’ Headlines Are On Autopilot

Don't be afraid of regulating driverless cars out of existence, writes Angie Schmitt. The industry needs guardrails.

December 10, 2025

City Shuts Down Volunteer Crosswalk Painting Event in Los Angeles

LAPD cited People's Vision Zero volunteer organizer Jonathan Hale for misdemeanor "vandalism on city property."

December 9, 2025

Tuesday’s Headlines Set the Record Straight

Folks who think dirtier cars will be cheaper to drive are in for a rude awakening.

December 9, 2025
See all posts