New Hope has decided to continue the practice on Chestnut and Buttonwood streets.
By: Linda Seida
NEW HOPE At the end of a six-month trial period for permit-only parking on Chestnut and Buttonwood streets, the Borough Council has decided to continue the practice for the next 12 months.
Residents who tried it said they like it, said council President Richard Hirschfield at the meeting July 8.
"I think it’s been quite successful," Mr. Hirschfield said.
Almost two months ago, the borough sent surveys to 35 permit holders. Of the 11 who responded, nine characterized their experience during the trial period as "very positive," Mr. Hirschfield said.
One said the trial was merely "positive," and another termed it "mostly negative."
"It’s not perfect but the response has been quite good," Mr. Hirschfield said.
Because occasional problems with parking persist, the borough will step up enforcement with more frequent police trips through the neighborhood, Mr. Hirschfield said. "Better signage" also will help, he added.
The fine for parking without a permit in a permit-only area is $35. The fine is doubled if a vehicle is left there for longer than 24 hours.
The council initially wanted a trial period of one year when it visited the topic of permit-only parking in January. Parking had long been a major headache for residents due to tourist and employee parking in the borough.
A small but vocal group of residents decried the $50 permits and persuaded council to shorten the trial by six months. Some residents feared permit parking would interfere with their ability to have guests because they would have nowhere to park.