Letters

I read with deep attention to detail the almost full-page story on the lack of parking during the busy summer months in Westhampton Beach [“Westhampton Beach Village Board Exploring Paid Parking Options,” 27east.com, November 10]. I did note, happily, that Mayor Ralph Urban hedged his bets a number of times in the article as to whether or not paid parking for Main Street spots, or spots in the lot behind the shops on the south side of Main Street, was really a solution. Mr. Mayor, it’s not. (The silliest idea floated was to consider the East Hampton plan, which is two free hours, followed by a $10 charge for the third hour. Really? That’ll get people to park behind the firehouse?)

I appreciate the problem, but the problem is an embarrassment of riches. The revitalized Westhampton Beach, with full credit to Maria Moore and now following up by Mayor Urban, is because the town is simply a wonderful place to be, year round as well as in the high season. And not every complaint needs to be addressed. It’s hard to find parking because it’s a great place to be, full stop.

But if you want to address it without any cost at all, simply reduce the existing “strictly enforced” two-hour limit to 90 minutes, or even an hour.

Admittedly, I’m a buyer, not a shopper. I’m in town to buy something, not saunter along window shopping. But even most window shoppers will be out of options within an hour and a half.

While it might be tight to eat lunch comfortably in an hour, 90 minutes almost always does the trick. And if you think you’re going to need more time, park behind the firehouse and saunter to your heart’s content.

Vincent Pica

Westhampton