SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — Driving down Phillips Avenue in downtown Sioux Falls can feel a little bit like an obstacle course. But that is about to change. The new parking ordinance for downtown will be going into effect soon. It will limit the length of vehicles that can be parked on a portion of Phillips Avenue.
The white lines are in place on Phillips between 9th and 13th streets. They measure 18 feet from the curb, So if a vehicle sticks out past this line drivers will get a ticket. Mid size SUVs are usually around 15 to 16 feet long, most crew cab pick ups are 19 feet or longer.
People we talked with say they are in favor of the new parking rules.
“I think its good just for like safety reasons to like when cars are coming by and things like me personally I have experienced almost hitting a truck and I think it just like good,” said Ali Viereck.
“I agree personally because driving through here and there are some vehicles sticking out,” said Carol Thompson. “Its not very convenient.”
This pick up, had a shorter bed and just fit within the line, the driver turned his front wheels and snuggled up against the curb.
There are 142 parking spots like this one between 13th street and 9th street that are impacted by this new ordinance, the good news is there are about 4-thousand parking spots in the downtown area to choose from.
The Sioux Falls city council approved the new ordinance last year but it goes into effect in 16 days on May 1. That’s when the Sioux Falls police department will start handing out $15 tickets.
