HomeMy WebLinkAbout11-15-2017 Public Comment (Rowley)
Meeting Date: November 15, 2017
SUBJECT: Public Comment (Parking Standards for Developments)
Dear Planning Commissioners,
Although I am unable to attend this meeting, I want to add a couple of comments about parking that I
neglected to mention during your last meeting.
An animus toward parking lots seems to have developed. That animus is demonstrated in the reduction
in the last 10 or so years of the number of required parking spaces, and in the narrowing of the actual
parking spaces. These actions have not reduced the need for off-street parking. On the contrary,
reducing the number of parking spaces in developments has resulted in a significant increase in the use of
on-street parking in areas surrounding these developments. Narrowed spaces have resulted in the more
frequent appearance of dings and dents on vehicles parked in these smaller spaces.
However, one thing that is never discussed is the value of having adequately large parking lots today.
1. A lot with truly adequate parking keeps cars from being parked in areas not intended for “overflow
parking” -- adjacent residential areas and/or nearby lots intended for other customers.
2. Additionally, as the years pass, if there is no longer a need for all of the parking spaces, the
unneeded area can be re-used. Depending on the amount of unneeded space, bicycle racks can replace
parking spaces, kiosks selling flowers or other items can be added. If there is a substantial amount of
unneeded parking area, one or more additional structures can be added.
3. If, however, we skimp on the number of required parking spaces now, and the dramatic reduction in
need does not occur, there is no reasonable fix available.
I recommend that when ITE Demand parking requirements are larger than City parking requirements, the
ITE Demand figures be used; and when ITE Demand requirements are smaller than City requirements, the
City requirements be used.
I hope you will consider these comments when the topic of parking requirements returns for your
consideration.
Thank you,
Sandra Rowley
SLO Resident