Port Jervis parking garage debated

ANYA TIKKA
Posted 10/4/17

PORT JERVIS, NY — The Port Jervis housing market went up by 2.9% last year, Moody’s rating went up to stable, and the city is beginning to see new businesses open in the Front …

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Port Jervis parking garage debated

Posted

PORT JERVIS, NY — The Port Jervis housing market went up by 2.9% last year, Moody’s rating went up to stable, and the city is beginning to see new businesses open in the Front Street/Jersey Avenue district, Mayor Kelly Decker said in a recent town meeting. He proposed building a brand new, three-story parking garage for the anticipated further growth.

Reactions to the $2.5 million proposal on Decker’s Facebook posting are mixed.

Some welcome the idea, while others advise city officials that Port Jervis that has no need for a parking garage. Yet some others propose other sites in anticipation of growth, including buying currently vacant properties or lots with buildings that are unoccupied around the same location.

Some suggested parking at the Riverside Park, which is also near the site of future planned White Water Kayak Park that is hoped will bring more tourism to the city. However, getting to that location across the railroad lines is a problem.

Decker said he’d tried negotiating with the railroad for three years about a crossing on grade level from Fowler and Fourth Street with parking along the tracks, but all efforts foundered.

Councilwoman Gina Fitzpatrick said, “Once downtown is very busy and thriving with all the new businesses and new apartments, I see there will be an issue. I think maybe a smaller parking garage and/or parking meters will be needed in the future, but not now.”

Resident Bruce Chenega said, “Parking meters. You people need to wake up. There’s no large retail in PJ.”

Decker responded, “This is part of rebuilding a city, and now is the time to bite the bullet. If you wait you will get nothing. I must say I have had numerous calls, texts, messages and emails by current developers (just look what’s going on) and others who are watching Port Jervis and saying this is another step in the right direction.”

Resident Ollie Gallo said, “I like the idea, but what about the fenced-in lot across from Tri-State Vet. It could be turned in to a parking lot with plenty of spaces. And I’m sure would cost less than building the garage.”

Decker said the owner wants $750,000 for the lot, and agreed that it’s something to be looked at after Gallo said, ”But even at, say $550,000 to $600,000, wouldn’t that be cheaper than the possibility of $2.5 million?”

Decker and others want to see Port Jervis as a recreation destination with access to nearby outdoor areas where you can hike and bike, the railroad museum and canal walk now in the works and history tours, as well as the activities at the White Water Kayak Park.

Decker also outlined the complete timeline of paying back the debt, much of which would be offset by the revenue from the anticipated full parking garage use.

Tom Edwards said, “Big ‘no’ to parking meters, it’s just another tax.”

Tigra Black’s view was, “I think it is a good idea.... Planning ahead is much smarter.”

Emmet Garnham agreed, “I am 100% behind this project. If people want the city to return to its former greatness they must have the courage to fulfill the vision.”

The debate, which Decker said is welcome, continues.

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