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Commission approves reverse-angle parking downtown 4–1 after safety and cost questions
Summary
The Planning Commission approved reverse-angle parking downtown by a 4–1 vote, creating 12 spaces (11 reverse-angle, one parallel) while commissioners and members of the public raised safety, net-gain and cost-effectiveness concerns; staff said the city has $200,000 budgeted for related work.
The Manassas Park Planning Commission voted 4–1 on July 9 to find a proposed reverse-angle parking plan for the downtown area substantially in accord with the adopted comprehensive plan, clearing the way for striping and right-of-way adjustments tied to the City Center redevelopment.
Commissioner/Administrator Barry, who presented the application (Case 2025-04), said the reverse-angle parking was requested in an amendment tied to the Park 170 ground-lease negotiations and is intended to add spaces in the City Center Redevelopment District. "There will be 12 spaces, 11 reverse angle and 1 parallel space right here," Barry said, describing a striped, dedicated lane where drivers would reverse into angled stalls and then drive forward to exit.
Members of the public and at least one commissioner expressed concerns about safety at a location on a curve and hill, visibility while backing into a two-lane road and whether the city should invest in education and striping for a relatively small net gain in parking. Barry estimated the net gain at roughly six or seven spaces and said staff would consult the staff report for an exact count. When asked about funding, an unidentified city manager said, "We have $200,000 budgeted for the rear single parking project," while noting that figure may not reflect the final cost.
Chair Lester Finkel moved the 2232 determination that the reverse-angle parking is substantially in accord with the comprehensive plan. The motion passed 4–1, with one commissioner recorded as opposed. Commissioners discussed the potential to stripe the area and restrict parking if problems emerge, rather than creating permanent physical barriers.
The commission closed the public hearing on the item prior to the vote. The project will proceed to the city’s implementation steps, including right-of-way adjustments and striping; final construction costs and timing were not provided in the public record.
