Erie Parking Authority Rules Regarding Handicap Placards Will Change

November 15, 2012 - Changes are coming from the Erie Parking Authority regarding handicap placards and parking meters downtown.

    According to parking authority officials, during a three week study period, during regular business hours there were about 75 meters being taken in the central business district by cars with handicap placards.

    Vehicles displaying a handicap placard or a handicap plate use to be able to park at meters downtown for free.

    But the rules are going to be changing because of people abusing it.

    Several cars park at the meters all for eight or nine hours a day, causing officials to change the rules.

    The parking authority, along with approval from Erie Mayor Joe Sinnott, has decided to now make those with handicap placards pay to park at the meters.

    Ray Massing, the executive director of the parking authority, did say during a news conference that the authority has dodged this issue forever but will now begin giving tickets to violators.

There will be a grace period while this new program is being implemented.

    Workers will place brochures on vehicles parked downtown to let them know about the change.

    Randy Bowers, Erie Police Deputy Chief, says that fines will total $186 for people who misuse handicap placards.