The commission’s decision to implement new parking meters in key areas was driven by the need to enhance enforcement and manage parking demand effectively. The changes include a two-hour limit for the new meters, which will help enforcement teams easily identify violations. Notably, the parking director clarified that the new meters would be installed on Hide Street, from Hide Street Place to Broadway, near City Hall and the American Legion lawn, replacing existing two-hour parking signs. The commission also approved an increase in meter fees from $1.00 to $1.50 per hour and introduced a 15-minute grace period at specific locations.

In addition to the meter updates, the commission reviewed parking regulations for Dehon Street, deciding to reduce the number of metered spaces from four to three. This adjustment was part of a broader effort to balance business needs with residential parking availability. The commission also addressed a proposal to remove parking at the corner of Walnut Avenue and Shirley Avenue to alleviate gridlock, which passed unanimously.

The meeting also involved discussions on residential parking rules, sparked by a request to remove 24-hour resident-only parking restrictions. The request highlighted ongoing challenges faced by residents who struggle to accommodate visitors and family under the current system. The proposal, which gained general support, suggested reverting to overnight parking only, with the potential for a future agenda item. Residents argued that the 24-hour restriction, initially implemented to manage commuter parking near MBTA train stations, was no longer necessary in the Riverside area.

A particularly discussion emerged over two-sided parking in certain neighborhoods. Residents argued that their streets could accommodate two-sided parking without compromising safety, pointing out that similar streets already have two-sided parking without issues. The commission emphasized public safety as a priority, noting concerns about emergency vehicle access on narrow streets. Despite resident frustrations over perceived inconsistencies in parking regulations, the commission maintained its stance, prioritizing safety and the need to adhere to traffic standards.

The meeting also touched on requests for handicap parking amendments, including a denied application for 25 to 27 Chver Street due to insufficient documentation. A separate request for a property on Pac Street was tabled pending further clarification. Meanwhile, discussions about parking on Washington Avenue confirmed existing “no parking” signs needed formal recognition in the ordinance, moving the item to a public hearing. Similarly, a request for 15-minute parking on Broadway was also moved to a public hearing to formalize current conditions not specified in the ordinance.

The commission’s proceedings concluded with a motion to move an amendment regarding handicap parking on Grand View A to a public hearing following the passing of the resident who previously held the handicap placard. Additionally, the commission briefly mentioned traffic calming measures for Mills A and Rice Avenue, noting ongoing considerations in the traffic working group and plans to deploy speed radar signs.