Riverhead considers overnight ban on commercial vehicles parked on residential streets
Some residents say an influx of parked vehicles in their neighborhoods has created congestion and safety concerns.
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Parking work vans, trucks and other commercial vehicles overnight on residential streets in Riverhead may soon be prohibited under a proposal introduced this week.
Some residents say an influx of parked vehicles in their neighborhoods has created congestion and safety concerns.
“When I do drive through the streets, it’s quite congested. A lot of cars are parked here,” one resident said.
Town Councilwoman Joann Waski proposed the new rule, citing complaints about noise and traffic linked to commercial vehicles on residential roads, including Fishel Avenue and Hamilton Avenue.
“When I come home from a town board meeting, it’s a single-lane road because it’s congested with vans and trucks,” Waski said.
Under the current town code, up to two commercial vehicles are allowed to be parked in front of a residence. The proposed change would prohibit commercial vehicles from parking on residential streets between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m., seven days a week.
“This is not against the workers. I’m happy that we have hardworking people in the town of Riverhead, but we have to be a good neighbor,” Waski said.
Not everyone agrees that the rule should apply uniformly. Frank Capone, a Manorville resident, said the issue depends on the location.
“If it’s in an area where parking is tight and cars have a hard time getting by, then yes,” Capone said. “But if it’s an area in the middle of nowhere like where I live, then it’s not a problem.”
Waski said she hopes the Town Board will vote on the proposal this summer. Officials are still working to determine details, including potential fines for violations.
