'Too Narrow' Streets Causing Hatboro Parking Issues, Officials Say

HATBORO, PA — Multiple streets in the borough are too narrow.

That issue makes it difficult for residents to park on both side of the streets and restricts access for fire apparatus, ambulances, police vehicles, trash trucks, and other large vehicles.

Those were the findings by the borough’s Parking Commission and Borough Staff, which have conducted a "thorough assessment" of on-street and off-street parking over the past year.

As a result, the Parking Commission is recommending that parking be restricted to one side of the street on over a dozen borough roads.

The Parking Commission, select members of Borough Council, and Borough Staff held a Town Hall event last Monday with residents living on impacted streets to explain the ideology behind the proposed parking amendments as well as obtain feedback on the proposed parking changes.

The Parking Commission will be taking the information gathered during the Town Hall meeting and reviewing it at their future meetings.

After the commission reviews the feedback, the information will be reviewed with the police chief, fire company representatives, and the borough engineer.

Any proposed parking changes must be discussed at future Borough Council meetings.

Additionally, amendments to the existing parking ordinance may be required before any changes can be implemented.

Borough officials said the process will take time and careful consideration.

"As we continue evaluating parking concerns, we ask everyone who parks on Borough streets to be mindful of emergency vehicle access," officials said. "Please leave adequate space to ensure that police, fire, and emergency medical vehicles can safely travel through our neighborhoods when responding to emergencies."

Anyone with comments and questions can direct them to Borough Manager Diane Hegele at dhegele@myhatboro.org.