Rhode Island State Traffic Commission to discuss parking signs in Narragansett

NARRAGANSETT, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island State Traffic Commission will hold a meeting today, as the topic of timed parking signs in town has sparked debate amongst residents and officials.

The town of Narragansett was seen putting up 3-hour parking signs on roads throughout town this past month, which the state had claimed was done without their approval.

In response, a cease and desist order was issued.

Leaders for the town defended their decision to put up the signs, saying that the ordinance for restricted parking had been approved locally over a year ago.

They also claimed that they were under the impression that they didn’t need approval from the Commission, as attempts to contact the State Traffic Commission went unanswered.

“Timed parking is really not in the purview of the State Traffic Commission, which is why I find it odd that this has become such an issue as no other municipality has ever had to go before State Traffic Commission to get permission for timed parking and/or meters,” wrote Council President Ewa M. Dzwierzynski in a recent email to ABC 6.

Two councilors for Narragansett Town Council confirmed with ABC 6 that timed parking signs was one of several items that the State Traffic Commission had put on their agenda.

They also confirmed that the town manager would be attending to provide information on the agenda items.

A petition, created by a resident and a candidate for town council, has begun circulating to stop the state from officially approving the 3-hour parking signs.