On behalf of Poulsbo’s Parking Advisory Committee, I would like to explain the purpose of this committee, the issues we are grappling with, and how citizens may become involved. The committee is not only considering ways to create additional public parking in the downtown area, but also to more efficiently manage those parking spaces that already exist. Interests represented on this advisory committee include downtown businesses, property owners, residents and the Port of Poulsbo, as well as three members of the Poulsbo City Council.

Thus far our discussions have focused on needs/conflicts associated with short-term parking for shoppers versus day-long parking for downtown employees versus extended parking for boaters. We have considered improved signage to indicate what kinds of parking are available and where. We are evaluating the appropriateness of parking time limits, as well as associated enforcement policies.

We are looking into potential cooperative arrangements with large existing (privately owned) parking lots in the downtown area. We have identified locations where it may be possible to create additional on-street parking. We will be considering what steps (if any) can be taken toward building a downtown parking garage.

The desirability and feasibility of these options are yet to be determined.

The Committee is tentatively scheduled to provide its conclusions and recommendations to the Poulsbo City Council before Labor Day.

The committee meets the second and fourth Tuesday of each month from 5-6:30 p.m. in the Poulsbo City Hall Council Chamber. Meetings are open to the public, and public comment is welcome at each meeting. You can follow the progress of this advisory committee on the city’s web page at www.cityofpoulsbo.com.