Oswego to Enact Parking Restrictions Outside Civic Center

Do you park your car along Ashlawn or Circle Drive West outside the Oswegoland Park District Civic Center?

Not anymore.

The Village of Oswego board voted unanimously to approve parking restrictions along those roads as well as a cul-de-sac in Lincoln Station upon requests from the Park District and the subdivision's Home Owner's Association. 

Police Chief Dwight Baird said the Park District's request came as "it related to their operations at the civic center." Also, the restriction of parking cars along the roadway would "reduce possibility of someone darting out between cars."

The no-parking restriction would only apply to Ashlawn and Circle Drive West on the park district's side of the roadway. "I do not see a big hinderance, it does not affect the homes across the street," said Baird, who said the police supported the decision.

Baird added the Park District wants visitors to use the assigned parking spaces and lots rather than the street. "A lot of times they’ll just park around building and take the shortest path."

The restriction will only be for parked cars with no occupants. Those using the Park District's daycare service would be permitted to park and wait in their vehicles on Ashlawn.

The Park District would cover the cost of the signage and the Village would only need to amend the Village Code.

"It seems like a good solution," said trustee Scott Volpe.

On the cul-de-sac end, Baird said the Lincoln Station HOA approached the police about restricting parking on Lincoln Station Drive due to traffic safety and space for emergency vehicles.

The cul-de-sac in question has an island in it, which has apparently encouraged residents to park in the street rather than in their driveways.

Board member Terry Michels  asked if this was a situation in all cul-de-sacs with the island in the middle and if the police should be looking into all areas.

"Apparenty this has become a habitual thing. It’s designed not to do that," said Baird of Lincoln Station Drive. "We don’t want to try and put up signs everywhere if we don’t have to."

Baird said they would be aware of other similarly-styled cul-de-sacs and consider them for future if needed. This situation was brought to their attention by the HOA.

The Village will pay for the cost of signage for Lincoln Station Drive, which Public Works director Jerry Weaver estimates to be about $40 a sign.