Photo by John West
We’ve received many inquiries about the new parking permits. Everyone is so pleased that WestSide residents may now park on the street overnight like other metropolitan areas across the country. This still doesn’t exist for most of Providence, by the way.
This is a two-year pilot program, so the ban could return.
Imagine the environment on the WestSide if homeowners could be confident enough that the ban would not return. We could tear up our concrete and asphalt driveways to make room for lush yards and gardens. Our neighborhood would become more beautiful than ever! Why not dream big? How about an efficient street car transit system, so that fewer people would need cars at all?
This information has already been posted on the WBNA website, but we’re re-posting it here for your convenience:
How does the program work?
If you live on a street that is included in the program, and your car is registered with the RI DMV at that address, you are eligible. A window sticker will be provided as evidence of registration, and you will be permitted to leave your registered car overnight on a street within the pilot area. Naturally, you will need to park your car in a space that is otherwise legal (for example, you cannot park in front of a fire hydrant or within 25 feet of a corner). When a parking ban (such as a snow emergency) is declared, you must remove your car from the street for the duration of the ban.
How many cars can be registered for overnight parking?
Up to 2 per household. Any more than that must be parked off-street overnight.
If I have two vehicles, do I have to apply individually for a permit for each vehicle?
Yes. Separate applications for each vehicle are required, but you need not come in person. They may be submitted at the same time, but the permits will be issued for the vehicles – not for the owner.
If my spouse has a vehicle and I have a vehicle, do each of us have to apply for a permit for each individual vehicle?
You do not need to personally apply for a permit, but remember that the permit is issued for a specific vehicle based on the residency of a specific owner. Accordingly, each vehicle requires an individual permit.
I have two roommates, both of whom have resident permits. Am I eligible to receive a permit too?
No. Only two permits per household may be issued. Arrangements must be made within households to allocate the resident permits available.
What is the cost?
The cost to register is $25.00 per car. Any unpaid tickets issued by the Providence Police and the car’s vehicle (excise) tax must be paid in order to obtain a permit for your car.
How do I apply?
Simply come to Providence Municipal Court with a valid (original, no photocopies) RI registration that shows the address of a street in the pilot parking area. Municipal Court is located on the first floor of the City of Providence Public Safety Complex, 325 Washington Street, located between Dean Street and I-95 Service Road #7. Applications can be made between 8:30 am and 4 pm, Monday through Friday.\
Must I come in person?
No. However, each permit is valid only for the car matching the registration presented. Remember, only 2 are allowed per household.
*For more information contact Ernest Carlucci at 401-467-7950
