HomeMy WebLinkAboutHandicap Parking On Improving Handicap Parking
By
William W. Schriever
When I go shopping by myself I really need to use the Handicap Parking to prevent having to
walk so far that I injure my hip. Many times I find that there are no Handicap Parking spaces
available where I want to shop. Now the number of Handicap Parking spaces is determined by a
code that does not take into account the demographics of the community such as the relatively
large number of elderly residents who qualify for Handicap Parking permits in our community.
I argue that there should be enough Handicap Parking spaces available so that anyone who needs
to use the Handicap Parking can find a space in which to park. To accomplish this, I propose
that the number of Handicap Parking spaces be increased until there is almost always at least one
Handicap Parking space available. This new code would not require any increase in the total
number of parking spaces, but only in the number of parking spaces painted blue. Thus the cost
will be minimal and any errors made in estimating the number can be corrected easily.
It may be that the additional Handicap Parking spaces can be provided in new locations that will
serve the elderly population even more efficiently. So let the actual use of the Handicap Parking
spaces determine not only the number of spaces needed but the best location for those spaces.
Finally, when it snows, the availability of Handicap Parking is even more important. Also the
pathway between the Handicap Parking and the entrance to the store should be cleared so those
using the Handicap Parking don't slip and fall on the snow and ice. Instead, what I have
observed year after year is that the contractor clearing the snow from the parking area piles it in
the Handicap Parking spaces where it remains for weeks before it melts. I propose that a fine be
levied on anyone who piles snow in or adjacent to a c Parking space.
July 31,2012 `W Schriever
1500 Brecknock Rd. #202
Greenport,NY 11944
631-477-9009
July 31,2012 William W.Schriever