Olean committee to propose no-parking zone on York Street after residents report narrow passage

The Olean Public Safety Committee agreed to place a proposed parking restriction for York Street on its Feb. 11 agenda after residents reported cars parked on both sides of a narrow stretch that limits traffic and could block emergency vehicles.

Committee members told the meeting they received multiple inquiries and photos from residents showing parked cars narrowing the roadway near the dance studio and extending toward Monroe Terrace. Committee members said the chief and the mayor visited the area and supported extending no-parking restrictions to reduce the narrowed passage.

Committee members described the proposal as banning parking on the west side of York Street from the street entrance up to Monroe Terrace, with parking allowed on the east side only. Members asked city staff to verify existing corner no-parking signage by the dance studio and to include notification for affected residents before bringing a formal resolution back to the committee on Feb. 11.

A resident who lives near the corridor confirmed the parking problems, and committee members agreed that posting the proposal on the docket would allow time for public feedback. The committee also directed staff to confirm whether existing no-parking signs at the corner already cover part of the area under discussion.

The committee did not adopt a final restriction at the Jan. 21 meeting; instead it scheduled the proposed ordinance for public notice and further review on Feb. 11 so residents could submit comments.