Renters need more parking spaces in high density areas, including Oakland Ave and Capitol Dr. The draconian restrictions they have been living under for the last number of years are totally unacceptable and hinder the creation of a stable community of medium and long term renters. I have frequently suggested that allowing overnight on-street parking on Oakland and Capitol would go a long way toward alleviating the parking shortage, thereby improving the lives of Shorewood renters.
One of the most frequently cited arguments against allowing overnight parking in Shorewood is the fear of an increase in crime stemming from the additional cars parked on the street.
We finally have data to analyze which will help us assess the probability of this outcome.
For about the last year, we have had a pilot program running on the northern section of Oakland Avenue, which allows area residents to purchase permits for overnight on-street parking. This program is restricted to only the northern section of Oakland Ave, but may expand in the future. What does our experience with the pilot program tell us about the legitimacy of the fear of a crime spike?
Below is an excerpt from a recent article discussing the success of the pilot program.
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By Brendan O'Brien
Staff Writer
Posted: Jan. 26, 2007...
Chief David Banaszynski said the program, which allows overnight parking on Oakland Avenue north of Capitol Drive, has met all expectations.
"We had excellent participation," he said. "The study has shown we can reduce parking congestion without any undesirable side effects."
Banaszynski added that
the department has not seen an increase in crime and that cars have not stayed on the street for long periods of time.
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