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Rhinecliff parking plan to limit spaces, remove one-ways and explore enforcement options
Summary
Town officials reported that residents of Rhinecliff prefer a compact parking plan of 20–22 spaces, no one-way streets and short-term limits. The board said it will revise designs, consider online reservation tools and consult Town Attorney Michael Barfield on fines and towing rules.
Rhinebeck officials said March 24 they will revise the Rhinecliff parking plan to reflect residents’ preferences for 20–22 parking spaces, no one-way streets and time-limited parking.
The board reported overwhelming public feedback in Rhinecliff calling for limited spaces, three-hour limits in some locations and no overnight parking. Officials said they will remove proposed one-way streets from the design and will enumerate exact parking locations and signage.
Town Attorney Michael Barfield advised the board that while reasonable fines and towing can be part of an enforceable parking scheme, the town cannot impose punitive fees or immediate towing without a legal basis. “According to our attorney, Michael Barfield ... we can't be punitive with fines or towing,” a board member said, summarizing legal guidance reported during the meeting.
The town is also exploring digital tools. Officials said they will investigate online apps that would allow drivers to reserve time-limited spaces; any paid reservation system would be minimal and intended to assist enforcement.
A town lot with 10–12 spaces will be examined for broader public use; previously it had been limited to Rhinecliff residents. Officials said the parameters — whether to sell spaces, reserve them for residents, or open them for general public use — are still to be determined.
The board said it will return with a revised plan that removes one-way streets and clarifies parking and enforcement measures. A draft will include proposed signage, time limits and potential fines or towing rules consistent with attorney guidance.
Separately, the board scheduled an attorney-client meeting with town attorney John Lyons to update members on the “Red Wing” matter; that meeting was set for Thursday at 3 p.m. via Zoom.
