Norwalk traffic authority approves 30-minute spaces and no-parking at Tierney Street driveway

The Norwalk Traffic Authority on Jan. 27 approved changing parking along a retaining wall on Tierney Street to two 30-minute timed spaces and a no-parking zone directly in front of a driveway, the authority announced during its meeting.

Traffic, parking and mobility staff told the authority the change responds to a complaint from residents of 11 Tierney Street about parked cars along the retaining wall in front of 13 Tierney Street and motorists speeding westbound through the intersection adjacent to JB's Deli. The staff presentation said the deli owner supported the timed spaces because shorter stays would increase turnover.

The authority's motion, described at the meeting as: “Change restrictions to two 30-minute timed parking spaces and no parking within 20 feet of the driveway,” passed unanimously. The meeting record did not list a mover or seconder for the motion.

Staff said the no-parking area would be 20 feet from the driveway and that signs would designate the two 30-minute spots. Staff also said they would add a reflective strip to the intersection stop sign to improve visibility after the resident reported motorists frequently rolling through the stop.

Commissioners discussed whether the change would affect the business and whether speeding — not just parking — is the core problem. Traffic staff said the business owner supported the timed spaces and that the reflective strip and turnover from timed parking should help both the resident and the deli.

The authority voted “aye” on the motion; the meeting transcript records unanimous approval. No ordinance or statute was cited at the meeting and no implementation date was specified.

The authority closed the Tierney Street item after the vote and moved on to other parking agenda items.