GUSCIORA ONBOARD WITH TRAIN STATION PARKING PROPOSAL

(TRENTON) - Assemblyman Reed Gusciora (D-Princeton) introduced legislation on Monday which would remedy a situation faced by many at NJ Transit stations - a lack of parking spots for infrequent transit riders known as "day trippers."  The bill, A.2453, would allow individuals to park in "permit only" spots during off-peak hours, and create a legal defense against any tickets issued.

"Since bringing attention to the issue," stated Gusciora, "I have had at least a dozen constituents and other residents from across the state share their own stories of receiving tickets because they parked in a permit only spot when all other spots were filled."

The proposal was prompted by a ticket Assemblyman Gusciora received when traveling from the Princeton Junction train station to New York.  Gusciora parked in a "permit only" spot because all non-permit spots were filled.  He promptly paid the $60 fine, but became concerned about the negative effect such penalties have on rider ship of New Jersey Transit. 

"With the demand for parking spots exceeding the amount available, desperate drivers often park on private property or circle the parking lots aimlessly for a spot to open, out of fear of parking in a permit-only spot." continued Gusciora.  "These negative experiences are no way to encourage individuals to take mass transit." 

Assembly bill 2453 would allow non-permit holders to park in permit-only spots between the hours of  9:30am - 4:30pm and 7pm - 6am on weekdays, as well as all day on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays.

"It is more than reasonable to allow the occasional NJ Transit patrons to park in any available spot at these times," concluded Gusciora.  "If the state wants to cut auto emissions and increase rider ship, creating parking flexibility is a unique approach to persuade persons to take mass transit."  

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