Dear Editor:
In the past few months, white poles have appeared in many Hoboken intersections. It appears not much thought was given to their need, expense and aesthetics, as well as the tremendous loss of valuable parking spaces in a community that desperately needs more parking, not less. Besides robbing us of these spaces, did the traffic engineer even consider the following:
1. Street sweeping machines can no longer reach these spaces, leaving behind huge swaths of leaves in their wake.
2. Moms dropping off/picking up their kids for school or sports activities have no choice but to double park, for those corners are not available for these brief stops.
3. Likewise, the delivery of take-out food, groceries, UPS and FedEx packages has been made more difficult and frequently results in double-parking or the new and very dangerous pattern of large trucks hanging into the intersections while making deliveries.
4. Seniors and disabled citizens, including me, find it increasingly difficult to get picked up and dropped off after visits to the hospital, the doctor, or church.
5. Lastly, the city can no longer collect revenue from “illegally-parked” cars in these corner spots. These tickets generate a large sum given the times that most residents are forced to park illegally in emergency situations.
As for the proposed changes to Washington Street, all we really need is a good paving job and brighter lights, not total redesign.
In the upcoming City Council election, seek out the candidates who have clear proposals for improving the parking situation. And remember: If you don’t vote, you can’t complain.
Arturo O. Martinez