Forum Photo by Michael V. Cusenza
If the pilot program works, “then we can expand it to other areas of the city, and if it doesn’t, we will definitely study other alternatives,” Sen. Peralta said.
By Michael V. Cusenza
To borough residents who spend countless hours after school and work searching for a parking spot remotely close to their home: State Sen. Jose Peralta (D-East Elmhurst) feels your pain.
That’s why this week he decided to address one of the most pervasive problems in Queens by introducing a bill that would establish a residential parking permit program in the World’s Borough.
“Finding a parking spot in New York can be an impossible task. Commuters, travelers, visitors, workers, all look for a curbside space for their cars, leaving residents without too many options to park their vehicles,” Peralta said. “Residential parking permits have been implemented in many cities across the nation, and according to a poll, New Yorkers would be willing to pay a reasonable fee to find it easier and faster to find a parking space. I would, since sometimes it takes me 30 minutes or longer to locate a spot. This is a pilot program, if it works, then we can expand it to other areas of the city, and if it doesn’t, we will definitely study other alternatives.”
According to S.6931, the City WOULD create a one-year parking pilot zoned for the area covering a two-mile radius of LaGuardia Airport. Additionally, the legislation requires that the parking permit system make 20 percent of the spaces available to non-residents. The program will not affect commercial thoroughfares, Peralta noted.
Under the proposal, the City Council will set the fees and fines for the program. Fees will be destined to the general fund of the City. Drivers will have to display the parking permit in their vehicles.
