Is permit parking unconstitutional?
The Virginia Supreme Court ruled that it is and based its rejection of an Arlington Permit Parking Plan on the grounds that it is improper to give residents a parking monopoly in the public streets of their neighborhood. It was struck down by the U.S Supreme Court, stating that it would reduce air pollution by encouraging reliance on car pooling and mass transit.
However, it is not difficult to understand why permit parking would be considered unwise by some. Many simply resent what they feel to be unfair and unnecessary governmental intervention.
Since mention was made of air quality, I fail to see the connection. You still have the same number of cars in the city. I know there are people who drive into the city, park and take the subway into Center City. I can understand those neighbors wanting permit parking, such as places near the sports stadiums.
However, down in the lower neighborhoods, such as the 500 block of Dickinson Street, the 600 block of Wharton Street, etc., it seems selfish and unneighborly.
It seems to me that the city saw this as a way to get more money.
Oh, and by the way, you are still not guaranteed a place to park when your block has two-hour parking even with your sticker.
So is permit parking unconstitutional? Any thoughts?
Margie Domard
South Philly Resident
