Engineers recommend one‑way streets and restricted overnight parking in Rhinecliff; town to hold public outreach

Town staff told the board on Jan. 6 that La Bella and Associates completed fieldwork for a Rhinecliff parking study and will present recommendations to the public in February.

The engineering firm surveyed streets and intersections and recommended converting some roads to one way so on‑street parking can be safely accommodated; narrow roads such as Orchard were identified as candidates for one‑way conversion. The study proposes outlawing year‑round overnight parking in the hamlet to prevent it from becoming a de facto parking lot for Rhinecliff visitors, allowing short‑term parking windows of two to four hours in some areas and 15‑minute spaces in others, and creating a mechanism to rent overnight parking to Rhinecliff residents who lack on‑street parking. The plan would also make a municipal parking lot available to the public during daytime hours.

Why it matters: The proposed changes seek to preserve quality of life in the hamlet, reduce congestion and improve safety at problematic intersections. Any changes to parking rules would require public outreach and adoption of local parking regulations.

What was said: Town staff said a public plan will be ready in February and suggested an additional town meeting in Rhinecliff or an informal session with board members and local officials to gather resident input. The board also referenced safety concerns at intersections such as the bend approaching Bridal Road Bridge.

Next steps: The board expects to publish the plan in February, hold public meetings for Rhinecliff residents and then consider adopting regulatory changes based on feedback.