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Downtown businesses press for improved van‑accessible parking and safer alley routes
Summary
Business owners raised concerns about lack of van‑accessible curb ramps and unsafe, unclean rear alley paths that discourage use of off‑street parking. Committee asked staff to explore engineering and design options to improve accessibility and safe connections from rear lots to Main Street.
Porterville downtown business owners told the Downtown Committee they want more practical van‑accessible curb locations and safer, cleaner alley routes so customers can use existing off‑street parking.
Business owner David Horowitz described difficulty for patrons who arrive in handicap vans because current curb curbs and mid‑block planters prevent a van from pulling close, deploying a side ramp and boarding a wheelchair user. He said the nearest practical van area is a rear lot behind the jewelry store and the walk from that lot to Main Street is “a long way” for some patrons.
Committee members discussed engineering options such as regrading select curb curves, adding van‑accessible stalls near block ends or placing curb ramps at every other block next to power boxes. Donnie (city staff) said such changes fall to city engineering and require a design and cost estimate; Clayton noted ADA‑compliant van stalls require greater stall width and load zone adjustments.
Members also discussed securing alleyways, improving lighting and enclosing dumpsters to encourage use of rear lots. The committee asked staff to research engineering options and probable costs and return with recommendations. No construction or funding was approved at the meeting.
