Edmonton police impound lot expanded with approximately 150 spaces added

The City of Edmonton has increased capacity at the police impound lot by adding around 150 spaces, a move aimed at managing the growing number of towed and abandoned vehicles. This expansion, which became available on June 17, utilizes a former Edmonton Transit Service park-and-ride site that had been used as a construction laydown area.

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We’re systematically working to clear the backlog. We understand the frustration Edmontonians have experienced and truly appreciate their patience.

Alan Le, Edmonton's parking enforcement superintendent, stated that the city is systematically working to clear a backlog of vehicles. He acknowledged the frustration residents have experienced and expressed appreciation for their patience. The number of abandoned vehicles awaiting towing reached a high of 682 on June 17 but has since decreased to 181 as of July 7, indicating progress in clearing the backlog.

Cindy Kieu from the Edmonton Police Service emphasized the commitment to improving the timely removal of vehicles and addressing capacity challenges. Both the city and police departments are collaborating closely to prioritize public safety and investigative needs. A vehicle is legally considered abandoned if left on public property for more than 72 consecutive hours.

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We understand how frustrating it can be when abandoned vehicles remain in neighbourhoods for extended periods of time. The Edmonton Police Service is working closely with the City of Edmonton to improve the timely removal of vehicles and address capacity challenges. We remain committed to prioritizing public safety and investigative needs.

The city employs a phased approach, moving 10 to 15 vehicles daily to the lot while ticketing encourages owners to relocate their vehicles. The added spots are expected to alleviate pressure on city resources and towing capacity, which have faced increased demand. Le anticipates that by the end of the summer, the city should be able to respond to new abandoned auto complaints much more swiftly. Crews will continue to prioritize vehicles posing immediate safety risks, such as those obstructing traffic or emergency access.

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by the end of the summer we should be able to get to all the new abandoned auto complaints much sooner and much quicker.