A Handicap space is different from Permit Parking and comes with requirements for annual medical certification of the disability. Even in the snow, the fine for parking a vehicle that does not carry "handicap" tags (or rear view mirror card), in a "Handicap" space is huge. I'll guess $300 / offense. Such fines should be sufficient disincentive for most drivers.
Folks can apply separately for the street space and the vehicle designations. And, maybe someone with a handicap sticker might be able to park without penalty, in some one else's "handicap" space. Hopefully, the designated user will find another space or one of the public spaces reserved for those with Handicap stickers. I think many folks, who have not applied for special stickers or spaces, find their disabilities more overwhelming when other circumstances (like extreme weather) kick in. Hopefully, neighbors will watch out for them. I think the cost of the annual PARKING PERMIT is only $35.00. I find this reasonable. It helps pay for the review of proofs needed to document residency and for the signs which mark the permitted areas. Since little of the city offers permit parking, it seems fair to view the permits as a privilege not available across the entire tax base. Some of the commuters who park on my block, so that they can catch the #13 or #34 into work, are probably tax payers from other areas of Philadelphia. So, I am happy that I can opt into the privilege of Permit Parking. But, Karen's points are also valid. Unfortunately, I have so many issues with the PPA 1. Outside studies document that 30% of the meters short change us on time 2. Money has not been reinvested in creating more spaces 3. Huge revenues are generated, only to generate huge revenues, etc. That I'd have to enjoy a much less busy life, before I could even determine where to start. Where things are private, privacy should be respected. But where things are clearly for public use and a common good, than that should also be respected. No one should ever block a private driveway. Even the person who owns it must keep their car off of the public walkway. Unlike Wilma, I would have sat on the horn until the jerk moved, or the people from Sam's "heard" my message of frustration. And, I would have been on my cell for police back-up and protection of my private property rights. Sometimes two wrongs can lead to an identification of the right. Homes with private drives and garages cost more, and the owners generally pay higher taxes, thus paying for their space. Having a garage, especially one earned through teaching wages, should be a cause for pride, not a cause for jealousy, mistreatment or frustration. As to the type of folks who like to "torture" the "haves" and for those folks who whine about "their" parking space and defend their right to litter our landscape with the kind of cheap crap that they are prepared to lose or see crushed, I don't believe many suffer any significant physical distress. I am convinced that most are just people who were never taught to share and were denied participation in team sports and truly earned victories. They are just not mature enough to work their minds around societies and economies that derive some of their success from cooperation and an understanding that not everything can (or should) be privatized. I get frustrated suspecting their ugliness begets more ugliness and other selfish / frustrated responses, (like mine) The clear thinking folks seem to get the concept that if everyone driving had to clear their spot, than there should be enough spots for all, albeit in slightly different locations. The trick is to increase the odds for the actual residents by limiting those who show up on Monday morning, to consume spaces during the day. This can be done with permit parking. So, does anyone want to lead the charge, or even supply a step-by step instruction plan, to help Block Captains, increase the number of PERMIT PARKING streets here in the 'hood? Maybe someone could also supply information on how one gets a handicap sticker or space. Best! Liz ---- You are receiving this because you are subscribed to the list named "UnivCity." To unsubscribe or for archive information, see <http://www.purple.com/list.html>.
