The town has designated free parking in all municipal lots through Dec. 27, officials say.
Members of New Canaan’s Parking Department are placing signs on meters in town to let shoppers know they don’t need to pay.
Carl Franco of Francos Wine Merchants on Elm Street said he was “very happy that the Chamber of Commerce worked out with the town free parking for all municipal lots.”
“I think that will be very inviting for the shoppers to give one last boost to all the merchants in town,” Franco said.
The designation, which took effect Monday, follows an unexpected loss of some parking and traffic difficulties late last week due to utilities work on Elm.
Laura Budd, executive director of the Chamber, said the “last few days before Christmas are very important to our retailers.”
“The Chamber and the municipality wanted to remove all barriers to our residents and visitors who are shopping local for all their last-minute holiday gifts,” Budd said.
New Canaan Parking Manager Stacy Miltenberg said that although the municipal lots are free through Dec. 27, all other parking regulations—including time limits—will be enforced throughout town. Miltenberg also urged those who work in shops, restaurants and other businesses in New Canaan to continue using the permits designated for their use rather than taking up the now-free spots that should go to patrons.
“We are encouraging the employees to use their permit lots so that their customers can come and shop in the stores,” she said. “We do want the employees that have the Center or Locust [Lot] permits filling the free parking—we want them to use their permits where their permits are.”
Love that photo, Michael. Every time I look up Elm Street at that time of day I am in awe—such a beautiful sight! Kirsten
As usual, well done Laura Budd and the Chamber!!
Can the stores be open later? At least 30 minutes after the last evening express train gets into town? Gives anyone who needs to grab a gift a chance. Otherwise it will be all online shopping.