The conversion of Everard Street parking regulations emerged as a top priority, driven by the need to improve safety for children walking to school. This initiative, backed by a $1.4 million grant, aims to expand sidewalks from 5.5 feet to 10 feet. Over 60% of students in the area reportedly walk to school. Julie Demorro from the Department of Planning and Community Development explained that the proposed amendments would not eliminate overall parking but would require removing some parking spaces to accommodate the widened sidewalks. The project, currently at a 25% design stage, has plans for a public hearing in late March to delve into further details.

It was assured that the design accounted for this consideration. A local counselor voiced support for the safety objectives while expressing reservations about the street’s narrowness and suggesting additional improvements for Cottage Street. Discussion also clarified that the project’s scope is focused on the immediate vicinity of the school to maximize student safety.

In addition to safety improvements, the commission discussed the installation of three new electric vehicle charging stations, an initiative supported by a $500,000 grant. The stations are proposed for Makoba Street, Hutchinson Avenue, and Proctor Avenue. Discussions highlighted the need for a revenue model to maintain the stations, with the current pricing model at City Hall being considered for integration. Emergency procedures for damaged stations were also addressed.

The commission further engaged in discussions about residential parking permits, with a proposal to limit permits to four per address, allowing for additional permits through an appeal process. The need for this regulation was acknowledged, particularly in areas where a single address might have multiple associated vehicles. The commission agreed to move this item to a public hearing to gather more input, particularly from the parking department, on average vehicle numbers per residence and to address concerns about residents exceeding the proposed limit.

Additionally, the meeting touched on various requests for handicap parking spaces. These included applications for a property on Babe Road and Carlson Avenue. The need for a spot on Babe Road was questioned due to the applicant’s reported ability to walk pain-free for a reasonable distance, raising doubts about the necessity. The application was completed by a physician assistant, which added to the skepticism. Similarly, ambiguity around driveway usage on Carlson Avenue prompted the commission to seek further clarification from the applicant through a public hearing.

Finally, the commission dealt with proposed amendments to traffic regulations concerning one-way streets, specifically on Janice Street and Furnishry Street. A recommendation was made to table the discussion until a commission member, who had submitted the proposal, could present their rationale. This decision was seen as essential to ensure that the changes align with a broader plan for one-way street regulations in the area.