Richmond Police say they’re cracking down on drivers who parktoo close to intersections and crosswalks after a recent rise in crashes, including fatal ones.
Why it matters: One drive around the city shows drivers consistently parking where they shouldn’t — blocking pedestrian paths and making turns a life-or-death gamble.
State of play: RPD announced their ramped up push late last month in a Facebook post with Lieutenant Marvin Marsh from the Third Precinct, which covers neighborhoods ranging from Forest Hill and Willow Lawn to Museum District and The Fan.
- It’s part of the city’s broader effort to improve pedestrian safety after a string of deaths.
- Marsh said officers will be out talking to motorists about city code, which says drivers can be fined $50 for parking within 20 feet of a crosswalk or within 30 feet of a stop sign.
- It’s $65 if a driver parks in a crosswalk or intersection.
What they’re saying: “We’d much rather have a conversation than write a ticket,” Marsh said. “So please, give corners the space they need.”
- “Every blocked crosswalk is a safety risk.”
What we’re watching: For how many violations RPD has cited since the announcement, which a spokesperson tells Axios they should have for us this week…