Parking options expand in Leechburg's business district
Leechburg officials have taken steps to resolve an ongoing parking predicament in the borough’s downtown business district.
After fielding complaints from a business owner about limited parking options on Second Street, council unanimously voted to approve the installation of two, 10-minute free parking spaces along the street. The new spots are in place for a 90-day trial period.
Council took the action June 20.
The spaces are in front of Market on Second, a specialty convenience store, and were requested by owner Jennifer Tony.
But Mayor Tony Roppolo said Wednesday the new parking spaces are intended to accommodate any business along Second Street, which lacks a parking lot and has limited metered parking spaces.
“We can’t dedicate the spaces for just one business. It’s a trial period, and the police will enforce it if a car is parked too long. We don’t want to be anti-business, but we have to look at the safety of the community,” Roppolo said.
The yellow street curbs will be painted white. Two signs were installed Wednesday.
Councilman D.J. Zelczak said council was comfortable creating the new short-term parking spots.
“We’re very interested in supporting local businesses in a variety of capacities,” Zelczak said.
Market on Second opened in October, and parking was problematic from the onset.
The business previously approached council seeking some type of parking accommodation for customers.
Manager Tara Salem praised council for hearing their concerns.
“Several council members reached out to me personally to ensure that we know how important small business is to the borough,” Salem said. “We’re extremely happy with the outcome.”
In a post on its Facebook page June 20, Market on Second asked customers to not abuse the parking spaces.
“Anyone parking there for extended periods can expect to be ticketed,” the post read.
After the trial period, council will reevaluate the parking spaces and decide whether to make them permanent, Roppolo said.
He said listening to small-business owners is vital to the borough’s continued thriving business district, which boasts an almost 100% occupancy rate.
“We’re proud of our business community. That’s why we call it the ‘Jewel of the Valley,’ ” Roppolo said.
Joyce Hanz is a native of Charleston, S.C. and is a features reporter covering the Pittsburgh region. She majored in media arts and graduated from the University of South Carolina. She can be reached at jhanz@triblive.com
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