Council approves paid parking and removal of on-street meters at Westchester Pike lot, vote 9-2

The Upper Darby Township Council approved Ordinance 2026-10 on July 15, authorizing removal of two on-street parking meters and reconfiguration of a township-owned lot at 0 Westchester Pike to create 44 parking spaces that will use the township's digital pay system.

CAO Crandall Jones and public-works staff explained that PennDOT required removal of the two street meters to improve apron access to the lot and that digital pay (app or credit-card-based payment) will be used rather than coin-operated meters. A township official said the lot will have 44 spaces upon project completion.

Public commenters raised practical questions and concerns: Joanne Namovong and others asked how the township will advertise the new paid status, who currently parks there, and how seniors and residents without smartphones will pay. Speakers suggested the township consider machines that accept coins or provide senior exemptions. Several commenters said they feared residents would be ticketed if signage and outreach were insufficient.

Council approved the ordinance after the public hearing. Secretary Billups recited a roll-call vote; the measure passed with nine yes votes and two no votes. Councilors who opposed cited concerns about fairness and senior access. Administration said the meters being removed are obsolete and parts are no longer available; digital pay systems are the county standard.

Council directed staff to proceed with project coordination and noted public concerns about outreach and signage should be addressed during implementation.