NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ – Motorists in New Brunswick will soon face steeper penalties for parking violations. If you’ve ever double-parked on Paterson Street, stopped at a taxi stand on Somerset Street, or pulled over on private property on Prosper Street, be prepared to pay more.
An ordinance proposing increased fines for 11 specific parking violations was approved on its first reading at the City Council meeting on Wednesday, March 6. For example, a ticket for parking in a loading zone is set to increase from $30 to $47.
Fines for other violations will also see significant hikes. Parking in front of a taxi stand will cost $37, up from $20; parking too close to a bus stop will increase from $35 to $47; and parking on private property will rise from $30 to $42.
Additional increases include penalties for violating alternate side parking rules ($47, up from $35), exceeding time limits ($52, up from $35), and parking overnight ($42, up from $30).
In a separate media release from Mayor Jim Cahill’s office on Tuesday, the city emphasized the importance of adhering to parking regulations for safety and accessibility. From Delafield Street to Delavan Court, and from Edgebrook Road to Edgeworth Place, compliance with parking ordinances is essential for the safety and convenience of pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists.
“During the pandemic, parking restrictions were not regularly followed. Now that the pandemic is behind us, it is time to fully follow the rules to help ensure a safe, secure and orderly city,” city spokesman J.T. Miller stated in the release.
One frequent issue has been motorists disregarding yellow curbs and parking too close to intersections. The penalty for this violation will increase from $40 to $47. Motorists should be aware that the curbs do not need to be painted for authorities to enforce restrictions for parking within 25 feet of a crosswalk or corner.
The release also highlighted the need to avoid blocking loading zones and fire lanes, as well as the dangers of double parking.
Parking along snow emergency routes continues to be a significant issue. Despite free parking in municipal decks during storms, some motorists still park on these critical routes. “With our two major hospitals, it is important to have clear routes for ambulances and others who are rushing to access emergency care,” Miller said. “Blocked snow emergency routes can truly be a life or death situation.”
The City Council’s next meeting, where further discussions on the ordinance are expected, will be on March 20.