Cell phones could be key to reducing the number of tickets issued in the downtown areas that currently have the highest rates of ticketing, says the Calgary Parking Authority.

All of the top 10 zones with the highest number of parking tickets issued in 2011 were in the downtown core and one spot in Kensington, according to data released to Metro by the CPA.

It will be those areas that CPA manager Troy McLeod says will be targeted by a campaign later this month encouraging people to sign up for a Park Plus mobile account.

“Where we end up getting the highest number of tags is typically where there is just a high demand for parking,” said McLeod.

Last year, the zone with the highest number of tickets (1210 tickets) was located on 16 Avenue S.W. between 9th and 10th Streets.

Similarly, 1201 tickets were issued just one block away at 16 Avenue S.W. between 8th and 9th Streets, and on Kensington Crescent N.W. south of 11 Street, 1204 tickets were handed out.

McLeod says encouraging drivers to sign up for a mobile account not only increases convenience, but sends reminders to drivers about expiring times, which can prevent ticketing.

“Our goal is compliance and the reminder system through cell is the most effective way for people.”

To view an interactive map, click here.