Council introduces two Poplar Terrace parking ordinances; public hearing set for March 16

The Township Council on March 2 introduced two ordinances addressing parking along Poplar Terrace and set a public hearing for March 16.

Ordinance 26-10 would establish two-hour parking on portions of Poplar Terrace to address spillover from nearby commercial properties. Ordinance 26-11 would designate segments of the street as resident-only parking. Council members said the changes target the stretch from the corner through the commercial area up to the first residential property, and that the segment from the first residential property to the end of the block would have resident-only restrictions.

Residents who spoke during the meeting said the measures would address daily blockages that at times prevent emergency vehicles and delivery trucks from passing. Mary Menogue, who lives on Poplar Terrace, thanked the council and said two-hour parking “will solve 2 out of 3 of our issues” but urged additional enforcement, clearer signage, painted curbs and a practical visitor/permit system.

Council member Pat O’Connor explained practical implementation details used on similar streets: resident stickers and visitor passes; he said the BA and mayor had asked DPW to paint yellow curbs by the stop sign — 50 feet on one side and 25 on the Friendly’s side — to improve sight lines. Officials encouraged residents to report violations to police and noted that early enforcement helps change behavior.

Both ordinances were moved and seconded for introduction and passed on first reading; the council noted full consideration and a public hearing will occur on March 16.