November 2012
TRAFFIC, BICYCLES & PEDESTRIANS
Recently, there were three pedestrian accidents that occurred in the Borough in a relatively short period of time. That called attention to some long standing concerns regarding traffic, bicycles and pedestrians in the Borough that will see increased enforcement activity on the part of the Police Department.
As the days get shorter, bicycles operating without a headlight and rear reflector at night are not only a hazard, but illegal. Additionally, children riding bicycles without a helmet is a safety risk that is also against the law.
Pedestrians crossing streets at places other than marked crosswalks or at intersections creates yet another safety risk. This is commonly referred to as “jaywalking” and is illegal. This is compounded by parking violations. With congested parking on many of our streets, vehicles that park too close to intersections or against traffic or otherwise park illegally cause additional problems for drivers to even see pedestrians entering the roadway.
All of these illegal acts combine to increase the risk of an avoidable accident occurring. In order to better manage these risks, the Police Department will be stepping-up enforcement of these types of minor violations. Our goal is voluntary compliance as we believe safety is everyone’s concern. Please help us maintain Mechanicsburg as a good place to live and visit.
April 2012
PARKING OF OVERSIZE VEHICLES ON RESIDENTIAL STREETS
Like all established Boroughs, parking is limited on many streets in Mechanicsburg as there is just not enough space to accommodate all the demands for parking. When an oversized vehicle is involved, this becomes even more critical as safety can be compromised due to limited line of sight visibility.
To address legitimate space and safety issues, Mechanicsburg does have an ordinance prohibiting the parking of oversize vehicles on public streets and alleys in residential districts in the Borough. The applicable section of the ordinance is reprinted below:
The parking of boats, truck tractors, trailers, and trucks except those not exceeding three-fourth (3/4) ton capacity, shall be prohibited on all streets in the Borough of Mechanicsburg which are located in Residential Districts according to the zoning classifications and regulations set forth in the Mechanicsburg Zoning Ordinance, Ordinance No. 869 [See Chapter 27], as amended. Provided, trucks, truck tractors and trailers shall be permitted upon any street in said Residential Districts for the purpose of making deliveries to or picking up goods, wares, merchandise or materials from premises situated upon any such street or alley.
Generally speaking, except for the business areas along Main, York, Simpson and Market Streets, the majority of the Borough is zoned as Residential. The actual Zoning Map of the Borough is available on the Borough Website under the Codes and Zoning section.
The Police Department routinely receives calls about this type of parking violation. While the intent of the Police Department is to warn violators and obtain voluntary compliance with the Ordinance, Parking Tickets and/or Citations can be issued for violations. Please be aware of these parking restrictions and make sure you are not in violation. If you are, you may be hearing from the Police Department.
April 2012
BOROUGH PARKS
It is that time of year when our Borough Parks will be used on a regular basis. Being that many more residents will be using our parks, there are some things that should be discussed.
First is the problem of crime. While our parks are generally safe for people, unfortunately, we have a continuing problem of criminal mischief or vandalism being done to property in the park. Repairing such damage can cost us thousands of dollars a year. The money for repairs ultimately comes from our residents through taxes. In addition, until damaged items are repaired, the full enjoyment of the parks is limited. In an effort to help us minimize the damage that can occur, if you see something or know something, please report it without delay. If an incident is active, please call 911 immediately. The Borough of Mechanicsburg has an ongoing reward program for information leading to the arrest and conviction of people responsible for damaging our park property.
Second, while many people enjoy our park system, few people know the Rules and Regulations that apply when in the parks. They are posted at the primary entrances to each park. However, many people do not notice them, let alone take the time to read them. One particular provision that is often overlooked is dogs in the parks. While dogs are welcome in our parks, they must be on a leash at all times while in the park boundaries. People are also required to clean-up after their dogs if they defecate in the parks. For your convenience, the complete Rules and Regulations of the parks are available by clicking on the button at the end of this article.
By showing courtesy and attentiveness when in our parks, everyone will be assured of a pleasant visit. Safety and community pride should be a concern for all citizens.