HotSpot Parking takes aim at drunk driving in Fredericton

HotSpot Parking has launched a new program designed to helppreventdrunk driving in Fredericton.

The so-called designated driverfeature will cover a HotSpot customer's parking for two hours the morning after a night out to encourage "safer choices," the company said in a statement.

Through research and observation, HotSpotfound people didn't want to face expensive parking tickets left on their car if they chose to leave it downtown overnight.

"Here at HotSpot we believe this is a serious issue that must be prevented immediately," the statement said.

HotSpot, which allows people to pay for their parking with their mobile devices, has partnered with MADD Greater Fredericton, NB Liquor and Downtown Fredericton Inc. on the designated driver program.

"This new feature makes it that much easier for Fredericton drivers to make the right choice to not drive when under the influence, which means lives saved and injuries prevented," said Scott Kennie, president of theMADDchapter.

NB Liquor president and CEO Brian Harriman agrees.

"We are pleased to see a local, innovative idea that offers New Brunswickers another simple, responsible alternative to driving impaired," he said.

HotSpot received $90,000 in funding from the provincial governmentearlier this month to hire six people and expand into international markets.

HotSpot is currently operating inFredericton,Saint John and Charlottetown, and plans to expand toMonctonand Halifax.