SWFL.io - Local NewsCity leaders in Cape Coral are addressing concerns from residents about illegal parking, particularly vehicles being left on medians and other areas where parking is prohibited.
Neighbors say the issue stems from a lack of available parking, especially in residential areas with duplexes and limited driveway space.
“So I think that’s the biggest issue — there’s nowhere to park,” said resident Natacha Concepcion. “Say you live in a duplex and you have a driveway and you have friends over. Where are they supposed to park?”
Instead of finding legal parking, residents say some drivers are parking wherever space is available, including medians near busy intersections.
City officials acknowledge the problem and say enforcement efforts are increasing. At the intersection of Gleason Parkway and Pelican Boulevard, vehicles have been seen parked on the median, an area where parking is not allowed.
“All day, every day,” said resident Nicholas Rose. “Several times — I would say three to five times a day, minimum.”
The issue was discussed during a Cape Coral City Council meeting Wednesday, where Mayor John Gunter emphasized the need for officer discretion when addressing parking violations.
“A couple things come to mind,” Gunter said. “Number one, you’re going to have to give discretion to some degree, either to the police officer or the parking enforcement officer.”
Cape Coral police Chief Anthony Sizemore said the department plans to focus on education before issuing citations.
“You’ll have the opportunity to meet that individual and educate them and get them to stop that behavior,” Sizemore said. “Then issue a citation to the owner rather than leaving it on the car.”
Sizemore told council members that officers could enforce parking violations as late as 11 p.m. Proposed fines could range from $75 to $100, though any changes would require city council approval.
City leaders say the goal is not to punish residents, but to keep roadways clear and safe.
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