Move To Expand Accessible Parking For The Disabled Gathering Steam In Winston-Salem

In the downtown area, you'll find an art house cinema, dozens of restaurants, and a vibrant night life. But it's missing on-street parking spaces that are specifically designated accessible.

That may be about to change. Last year, senior citizen Nancy Dennis fell and was injured while attempting to step up on a curb. She lives near downtown and has multiple sclerosis. In December, Dennis appeared before the City Council, and argued for more accessible parking, telling members, “I know if I had a curb cut and handicapped parking that would never have happened." 

The City asked for input from the public, as well as business owners, and the results of that process are expected to be shared by the council in the weeks ahead. 

In the meantime, local business owner Cary Clifford launched a petition for the expanded parking. In it, Clifford writes, "Having just a few designated handicapped parking spaces...will send a message to all of our local citizens that we are a welcoming and caring community." To date, the petition has received more than 300 signatures toward a goal of 500.

Winston-Salem officials point out that those with placards issued by the state can park in both metered and time-limited spaces on the street at no cost.