Beginning Dec. 1, 2020, a permit will be needed to park overnight on West Hartford’s streets.
By Ronni Newton
West Hartford Town Manger Matt Hart said that the town’s overnight parking ban, which was originally suspended at the start of the pandemic, will resume effective Dec. 1, 2020.
The suspension of the ban was extended multiple times – until June 30, then until Sept. 30, and again until Nov. 30 – but as the winter months approach, Public Works crews will need the streets cleared to allow for curb-to-curb plowing operations to take place.
The intent as of now will be to have the ban in effect on a seasonal basis only, and to allow overnight parking on West Hartford’s streets from April 1-Nov. 30.
“The overnight parking ban had been suspended since early in the pandemic to accommodate influx of people coming into town,” Hart told the Town Council Tuesday night.
As of Dec. 1, 2020, the seasonal parking ban will go into effect, and will last through March 31, 2021. During that time period, any vehicles that remain parked on the street between the hours of 2-5 a.m. will be subject to ticketing unless an omit has been obtained online through the West Hartford Police Department or by calling 860-523-5203.
“We are going to take this time to look at some options,” Hart said, noting that other communities have a seasonal ban rather than a year round ban.
Hart said that changes this year to the town’s overnight parking ban have been temporary measures prompted by the coronavirus pandemic. If the town were to move to a permanent change, the Town Council would vote on a change to the ordinance.
Hart said he is also looking into the possibility of issuing residential parking permits.
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“Hart said he is also looking into the possibility of issuing residential parking permits” (permit=fee).
Of course, let’s be greedy and make some $ from residents that simply want to park in the street in front of their home. Makes about as much sense as charging a permit fee on residents that want to take stuff to the recycling center. Fee? It’s a social disincentive and people will think… Okay I’ll just throw it in the trash barrel instead.
Parking fees should be limited to those cars that are left on the street after an announcement has been made to ban street parking for a snow fall.