Westfield plans stepped-up downtown enforcement: parking rules, pedestrian decoys and juvenile outreach at Mindowaskin Park

Westfield officials outlined enforcement and outreach measures to address downtown parking, pedestrian safety and recurring juvenile gatherings as the town reopens for outdoor dining and events.

The mayor said 15-minute curbside spots on Quimby Street will return to support restaurants; Chief Battilora described stepped-up enforcement including photographing parked vehicles with GPS, returning for repeat violations and escalating summonses for persistent offenders. He noted some repeat violators are employees of downtown businesses and urged self-policing and use of free parking at the South Avenue lot.

On pedestrian safety, Battilora said the department will deploy pedestrian decoy enforcement led by Lieutenant McGowan with plainclothes officers and officers positioned to stop drivers who fail to yield to pedestrians.

For Mindowaskin Park, the chief said juvenile gatherings remain a challenge. Sergeant Maloney and juvenile-bureau staff adjusted hours and conducted night patrols and plainclothes observation; the department prefers warnings and diversion and will avoid arresting juveniles unless criminal activity (weapons or robbery) occurs. The town plans minor infrastructure changes such as improved lighting and a perimeter fence around the playground to protect young children and support compliance.

The mayor and chief urged residents and businesses to use the South Avenue train-lot parking and to help enforce rules through reporting and compliance to reduce enforcement burdens on staff.