TRENTON – The ongoing travel restrictions have created an unexpected headache for New York-bound commuters who switch to mass transit — they just can’t find a parking space. Residents in several northern New Jersey towns have complained about receiving multiple parking violation notices, while others have had their cars towed.
In Parsippany, the problem came to a head recently after more than 50 vehicles were towed from a local shopping mall over a two week-period. Commuters had left their vehicles there because no more spots were available at the park and ride lots off Route 46. After several motorists were told it would cost them $230 to retrieve their cars, the towing ended after mall officials received an angry telephone call from Parsippany Mayor Mimi Letts.
The parking squeeze could ease in upcoming months, as travel restrictions into New York are lifted. Several communities also plan to provide jitney bus service to local rail stations. NJ Transit, as part of a project that was being developed before the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, is now providing a similar service in about 20 towns. Miller said additional jitneys are scheduled for delivery in the spring.
Unfortunately, one of the largest parking projects is years away from completion. The new Montclair State University station, on the Boonton line, includes a parking deck capable of holding 1,000 vehicles. The station, which will provide direct rail service to Manhattan, will not be finished for at least three years.
