No Park and Ride at Township Parks

Following some reported complaints of people parking at township parks and then heading off somewhere else, taking spaces from people who wish to attend games or just use the recreational facilities, the Township Committee has taken steps to stop those parks from being used as an informal park and ride.

Deputy Mayor Carolyn Gaziano said she doesn't know whether the township is yet enforcing the law, passed this month by Township Committee.

But the township is trying to be pro-active and letting people know about an issue that apparently caused a handful of people to complain, Gaziano said.

"Unless authorized by the Township, no person shall park a vehicle at any township park or open space property...unless utilizing the park or open space property for its intended purpose," said an ordinance passed by the Township Committee in mid-December.

Anyone who parks at a township recreational facility and then leaves — including Pleasant Valley Park, Southard Park, Harry Dunham Park, the Dead River Trailhead off Acken Road and more — risks a ticket, according to the new ordinance.

Officials were in agreement that at this time there should be no parking and riding off from township parks and recreational facilities. However, Township Committeeman John Malay noted that the wording leaves it open if the township wishes to allow a park and ride at local parks at this time.

"I think a park and ride is of no benefit to the town," said Township Committeeman John Carpenter. "In my mind, it's a magnet for people from out of town to use it and go somewhere."

But township resident Todd Edelstein said police have enough to enforce.