Ridgewood approves holiday free‑parking trial for two Saturdays after split council vote

The Ridgewood Village Council voted Dec. 10 to authorize a holiday free‑parking program for the central business district on Dec. 13 and Dec. 20, 2025, intended to spur shopping and dining in downtown Ridgewood.

Clerk Heather read resolution 25‑559 in full, which authorizes free parking in all designated spaces in the Central Business District — including commuter parking spaces — for the two designated Saturdays and restricts the free spaces to store and business owners, employees, shoppers and diners.

Supporters, including Councilmembers Mortimer and Winograd, characterized the plan as a limited trial that could boost local businesses during the holiday shopping period. "Because this is late and there's two Saturdays, I think it's worth a try," one supporter said, urging residents to shop, dine and move their cars responsibly.

Opponents raised practical concerns that business owners and their employees could occupy prime spots all day, crowding out shoppers. Councilmember White said she was "going to vote no respectfully" and worried employees might use the spaces, and Councilmember Vagianos warned the policy could be counterproductive in practice. The resolution passed with a council majority; council discussion recorded three votes in favor and two opposed.

The measure was approved as a short, two‑Saturday experiment honoring Tony Damiano and intended to encourage foot traffic during peak holiday weekends. Staff said the plan will be implemented on the listed dates and monitored for effects on downtown parking and commerce.

Next steps: The holiday parking plan will be in effect on 12/13/2025 and 12/20/2025; staff and the Chamber of Commerce will observe outcomes and report back to council as needed.