Commission backs reconfiguration of Broadway alley parking, urges relocation of donation trailers

Seaside staff recommended reconfiguring parking in the Downtown Broadway Alley to perpendicular stalls to improve access and capacity, and the commission moved to approve staff’s recommendation while public speakers urged the city to relocate donation trailers that occupy multiple stalls.

Aaron Hahn described a proposed conversion to 40 perpendicular parking stalls (18x9 feet) and a motorcycle stall to replace the current angled parking; he said the alley is city‑owned and that the proposed change would improve access from either direction. "The perpendicular parking would allow easier access from either direction as well as adding additional spots," Hahn said.

Public commenters and a member of the economic development committee noted that Goodwill/Salvation Army donation trailers currently occupy roughly 7–10 usable stalls and said those trailers should be moved to preserve alley function and support planned redevelopment at the 'Pink Square' site. One public commenter said the trailers are often loaded and then transported out of the area. "They take those all the way to Watsonville," the commenter said.

A motion to approve staff's recommendation was made and seconded during public comment. Commissioners asked staff to coordinate with economic development and the affected charity to identify relocation options before the matter advances to full council. Staff confirmed it had invited Goodwill to the meeting and that economic development staff had been in discussion with the organization.