Reading Parking Authority has announced today they will be resuming full enforcement of parking ordinances in the City of Reading beginning Monday, July 6, 2020.
The parking authority was closed from March 18 through May 3 in response to Governor Tom Wolf’s stay-at-home order. During that time, RPA operations were reduced to essential functions only to help minimize person-to-person contact and prevent the spread of COVID-19.
During that time, only public safety related violations such as parking at a fire hydrant, blocking an intersection, hazardous vehicle, etc. were enforced. Enforcement of non-emergency ordinances was temporarily suspended while more residents were at home and in need of parking.
“As residents and businesses in Reading and neighboring municipalities slowly become more active in the community, enforcement of the City’s parking ordinances is increasingly important,” said RPA Executive Director Nathan Matz.
“We’re providing the 10-day grace period while people get accustomed to the changes and enjoy their holiday weekend.”
Matz said Parking in all Reading Parking Authority garages is free from 6pm Thursday, July 2, through Monday, July 6, at 8am.
“We wanted to give City residents additional parking options for their Fourth of July picnics and parties.”
Vehicle immobilization using Barnacles or “boots” also resumes on Monday. Vehicles with five or more unpaid parking citations or in default on a payment plan are at risk of immobilization.
“Anyone whose vehicle is at risk of being Barnacled or booted should contact the administrative office as soon as possible,“ said Bart Ganster, Parking Enforcement Officer Supervisor at Reading Parking Authority.
“Immobilization is used as a last resort before a vehicle is towed. It provides owners with an additional opportunity to make payment while avoiding the fees incurred as a result of towing.”
RPA’s administrative office, located at 613 Franklin Street, resumed regular hours in early May. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8am – 4:45pm to answer parking-related questions, issue permits, and accept payment for violations.