Local residents now have their own place to park at the Bellmore Long Island Rail Road Station.
Hempstead Town Supervisor Kate Murray, along with Councilman Gary Hudes and Councilwoman Angie Cullin, announced a pilot program that will designate 227 commuter-parking spaces to Town of Hempstead residents near the intersection of Sunrise Highway and Centre Avenue.
"We believe the launching of this parking program at the Bellmore Train Station will provide greater parking access to our residents who utilize the train," Murray said. "The issuance of resident parking permits at the Bellmore Train Station will certainly be welcomed by our township's hard-working residents who commute to work every day.
Murray, along with other TOH representatives, will be at the Bellmore Train Station on Oct. 4 and Oct. 5 to disseminate fliers that express how residents can get involved. Notices will also be placed on commuter vehicles to make sure they are up-to-date regarding the new program. Residents can obtain permits on Oct. 11, 12, 18 and 19 between 6-9 a.m. for use of the new spots. Residents can also obtain permits at Hempstead Town Hall after Oct. 3. The cost for a permit is $3 per year. The new permit parking spot requirements go into effect on Oct. 22.
"We appreciate that the Town of Hempstead consulted with the LIRR during the development of their pilot programs," LIRR President Helena E. Williams said. "We applaud the Town's efforts to encourage LIRR ridership. We need more people to stay off the highways and use the LIRR."
Residents must bring proof of residency when purchasing permits. Payments may be made by cash or check (payable to the Town of Hempstead). Parking permits do not guarantee a parking space; however, they do ensure that parking in permit stalls is reserved exclusively for Hempstead Town residents. For more information, please call 516-489-5000, ext. 3024. Office hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.
"We'll bring the town's mobile home directly to commuters at area train stations, making is very convenient to secure a parking permit," Murray added.
Murray and Hudes also announced that town officials are conferring with the LIRR as they work to unveil a pilot commuter parking permit program at the Merrick Train Station as well.
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