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Issue · Salem, MA

Zone C Resident Parking Permit Extension

Extension of resident parking permits creates scarcity concerns for existing residents while addressing needs near library and church.

Overview

The Zone C extension proposal seeks to grant permit access on Essex and North Streets to ease shortages near the library and church. It was adopted for first passage on May 28, 2026 after amendments excluding four addresses, following contentious public testimony over ordinance compliance and scarcity impacts.

Background

The Zone C Resident Parking Permit Extension was introduced at the May 28, 2026 city council meeting as an ordinance to extend Zone C permits to Essex and North Streets along with related amendments to parking zones and permit rules on Essex Street.

The proposal originated from the need to address insufficient parking options for residents on Essex Street near the library and church by allowing access to surrounding streets in permit zones C and D.

Public testimony at the meeting revealed strong divisions, with the council ultimately adopting the ordinance for first passage after amendments that excluded specific addresses on Essex Street.

Opponents during testimony argued that the extension would violate City Ordinance Section 75 and trigger a domino effect of parking scarcity affecting existing residents.

Supporters countered that the change was essential to relieve parking shortages for those without off-street options, noting consistent difficulties finding spots since moving into the area.

The council made targeted amendments excluding addresses 365, 373, 377, and 387 on Essex Street before approving first passage.

How it unfolded
Ordinance to extend Zone C permits to Essex and North Streets was raised in public testimony; after amendments excluding addresses 365, 373, 377, and 387, it was adopted for first passage.
2026-05-28City Council
Arguments in favor
Residents on Essex Street lack sufficient parking options and need expanded access to surrounding streets.
city-council 2026-05-28
For
Finding consistent parking in the neighborhood has been very difficult since moving in.
city-council 2026-05-28
For
The ordinance aims to move certain residents into specific permit zones (C and D) to alleviate parking pressure in front of the library and church.
city-council 2026-05-28
For
Arguments against
The extension violates City Ordinance Section 75.
city-council 2026-05-28
Against
It would create a 'domino effect' of parking scarcity for existing residents.
city-council 2026-05-28
Against
It would worsen parking for current residents and set a precedent that benefits developers at the expense of residents.
city-council 2026-05-28
Against
Granting exceptions would destroy the existing parking ordinance.
city-council 2026-05-28
Against
Key voices
“Expressed strong opposition, arguing the extension would worsen parking for current residents and set a precedent benefiting developers.”
Residentcity-council 2026-05-28
“Warned of a 'domino effect' where granting exceptions would destroy the existing parking ordinance.”
Residentcity-council 2026-05-28
“Advocated for the permits, noting that finding consistent parking has been very difficult since moving in.”
Residentcity-council 2026-05-28
Zone C parkingEssex StreetNorth Street