Commission tables parking ordinance for two narrow residential blocks after extended discussion

Chief Wilson presented Ordinance No. 67-20 seeking to prohibit parking on two narrow street segments: the 1200 block of South Ninth Street (the hundred block referenced in staff materials) and Riley Street between Washington and Second Street. Wilson said both segments are about 15 feet wide, provide limited off-street parking options for adjacent residences, and that parked vehicles have at times blocked passage and impeded emergency vehicle access.

Commissioners discussed resident complaints, student parking pressure near Benedictine College, sight-line problems at Mound and Second, and whether alternative measures such as one-sided parking, additional signage, or further study would be preferable. Mary Anne Amrine, a resident who lives on Mound Street, testified that visibility leaving driveways and cross streets is already difficult and urged the commission to consider where visitors would park.

Commissioner comments noted that a traffic study covering Second Street and cross traffic is complete and staff planned to review results with the city engineer; several commissioners asked that affected residents be notified before the commission finalizes any parking prohibition. Given those outstanding issues and resident concerns, the commission moved and seconded to table Ordinance No. 67-20 for additional study and resident notification.