On Street Parking is Exceptional for City Health

There are thousands of reasons why motor vehicles are the death knell of cities. Except in one case: When motor vehicles are allowed to park at the curb of a street (on-street parking), motor vehicles are enormously beneficial for town centers, retailers, pedestrians, and neighborhoods. Such parking narrows street width, which does something that leads to one of the things cities need most for health: It slows down car traffic and makes streets far safer. Such parking is also essential for the health of small retailers. In sum, I LOVE on-street parking, and am disappointed when I hear opposition to such parking by folks who should know better.

A friend asked if on-street parking is used for “woonerfs,” the “living street” design that creates an extremely low-speed design allowing safe and pleasant sharing of the street by walkers, bicyclists, and motor vehicles. As I understand it, I believe woonerf design often incorporates on-street parking. If not, I would oppose the woonerf as it would kill small retailers.

___________________________________

Use this link to purchase books written and published by Dom Nozzi.