GR Winter Parking Restrictions Are Less Than Two-Weeks Away

As we get closer to the November 3rd election, we also get closer to something else starting in Grand Rapids. Starting November 1st, parking along neighborhood streets change in Grand Rapids as the winter parking restrictions go into effect, unfortunately. I say unfortunately because that means we have to start "fighting" with our neighbors about leaving enough room for everyone to park; or is that only on my street?

The City of Grand Rapids posted on their Facebook page Tuesday, reminding everyone of Odd-Even parking restrictions and the one outside of my house, Same Side parking restrictions – which means finding a parking spot anywhere close to my front door, is going to be a miracle.  It also means you’ll be ticketed if you’re parked on the wrong side of the road.

So how does Odd/Even parking work? Well from the City of Grand Rapids website:

Odd-Even parking restrictions mean that, on each even-numbered day, starting at 1 a.m. and until 6 p.m., parking is prohibited on the odd-numbered side of the street. On each odd-numbered day, starting at 1 a.m. and until 6 p.m., parking is prohibited on the even-numbered side of the street. From 6 p.m. to 1 a.m., the next day parking is PERMITTED on both sides of the street unless signs restrict parking.

 

Same Side parking restrictions require that residents only park on a designated side of the street from Nov. 1 to April 1. On some of the narrowest of streets, parking may not be allowed at all. This practice allows for removal of debris and snow plowing and helps to keep one lane of traffic open and available for emergency and public service vehicles.

 

In previous years, the police gave us about a two week grace period to get used to the seasonal parking restrictions before they started ticketing cars.  Last year they did start handing out warnings almost immediately.

Just remember the grace period disappears if we actually experience winter weather closer to the start of November.

As always, may the odds (or evens) be ever in your favor.