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Planning commission backs demand-based parking option allowing studies to reduce required spaces
Summary
The commission recommended the supervisors consider a parking-ordinance update that would let nonresidential applicants submit parking studies (including ITE studies) to seek fewer required spaces than the existing formula; the commission approved forwarding the recommendation by voice vote.
The Smithfield Township Planning Commission voted to recommend that supervisors consider a demand-based parking ordinance that would allow nonresidential applicants to submit parking studies to justify lower parking requirements.
Planning staff member John explained the proposal: developers could present evidence that similar uses elsewhere operate with fewer spaces or submit an ITE parking study recommending specific ratios, rather than defaulting to the ordinance's fixed formula. John said the existing zoning ordinance still contains the default formula and applicants may choose to use it if they prefer.
A commissioner moved that the planning commission recommend approval to the board of supervisors; Mr. Schreiber seconded the motion and the commission approved it by voice vote.
Supporters said the change aims to prevent oversized surface parking lots for uses that do not require them, and to encourage development that is more compact. No public comments were recorded on the matter during the meeting. The recommendation will go to the board of supervisors for review and possible ordinance adoption.
