Mayor Candidate: Charge Non Residents To Park at East Haven Beach

EAST HAVEN, CT - A Republican mayoral candidate in East Haven, Big Steve Tracey, has come up with a plan concerning parking issues at the Town Beach which includes charging non residents a fee to park.

The issue of out of towners clogging up the parking areas near the beach was discussed at the most recent Town Council meeting. It is a issue that residents who live near the Town Beach have complained about for years.

“After listening to residents for many years voice their concerns with the conditions of the town beach, especially parking, I am committed to finding a solution, Tracey said. “Our town beach is one of the best natural resources in our community and we must continue to improve and protect it. I have heard the complaints and possible solutions on these matters from devoted neighbors and other town officials. I believe, together, we will create a solution to make our beach a positive experience for all.”

Tracey’s plan includes:

1. Establish neighborhood residential parking on Cosey Beach Avenue and side streets surrounding the town beach.

2. Create a parking fee of $20 per car for all out of town visitors to park at the town beach lots. All non-town registered motor vehicles must pay to use the parking. (Effective from Memorial Day through Labor Day).

3. Residents will park free with the presentation of a valid in town car registration. Not the individual but the car.

4. Establish an enterprise fund for all proceeds for beach parking revenue. The revenue stays in a separate account administered by the town and all funds go back to fund improvements and maintenance to the town beach.

5. Establish a seasonal traffic flow pattern on Cosey Beach between Coe Avenue and Second Avenue as “one way only”. This will allow for a much better traffic flow and greater protection of the visitors, especially the children.

6. Work with an already established neighborhood advisory committee to advise and give guidance to town officials on all matters related to the beach and the neighborhood.

7. Increase maintenance and upkeep for the beach and building. Build out security cameras. Put special fencing around the splash pad. Hire more seasonal workers to extend the time frame that supervisory park personal are available while the park is open.