Stevensville council holds first reading on no-parking ordinance for 515 Main amid safety concerns

The Stevensville Town Council took up a first reading of Ordinance 172 on Jan. 9, a measure that would establish a no-parking zone at and around 515 Main Street in front of Avea Coffee, citing repeated near‑collisions and limited sight lines around a sharp curve.

The issue drew multiple speakers during the public hearing and discussion, including business owners and council members. Eric Wilson, who identified himself as an owner of Avea Coffee, said the change directly affects his business and sought clarity about what the ordinance would change versus the current parking layout. "I'm affected by — my wife and I are the owners of the Avea Coffee, and it's directly in front of us," Wilson said during public comment.

Council members and staff said the ordinance is intended to reduce pedestrian and vehicle conflicts where a curve on Main Street limits drivers' ability to see doors opening and people crossing. Council discussion referenced guidance from the Montana Department of Transportation that requires a clear, measured segment for no‑parking language rather…