BOS:311

I would like to have it explained to me how it is that some private buildings and businesses can rent (or simply block off) space on a public street for their own use. That property owner does not maintain, clean or shovel the street as it is a city street owned by all taxpayers. For instance, Boston Cigar Club and Tangerino Restaurant (corner of Main St and Monument Avenue) in Charlestown, blocks off an entire corner of Main Street and Monument Avenue to offer valet parking to its customers. I assume they have filed for such use with the parking authority. But I have noticed that other establishments that offer valet service seem to have a limited amount of space for such a service. The designated space is rarely the entire area of the establishment. Is there a limited amount of space that can be used for valet purposes? If so, what is that limit? Also, I would like to know where exactly do valets take the cars? As you are aware, street parking in Charlestown is very limited for the citizens that live here so allowing parking spaces to be cordoned off for business use is just unjustified. Another building, the Basilica (106 13th Street, a private condominium) in the Navy Yard near Spaulding Hospital has marked off parking for their residents only on 1st Avenue. How can a private residence take over a public street for their own use? Again, Basilica owners do not maintain the street, clean the street or shovel the street as it is a public street, It has always been my understanding that a public street is exactly that…public. It cannot, therefore, be used by one business or residence. If our public streets are for rent, lease or sale, I would like to be given information about renting, leasing or purchasing a parking space in front of my home on Monument Avenue. Clearly this is an option for some buildings as it is being done by these two buildings owners. Thank you in advance for your attention and response to my request. Sincerely, Kathleen McVey 65 Monument Avenue Charlestown, MA 02129

Blocking crosswalk and too close to intersection

Access to driveway not repaired properly; difference in angle and grad of repaired road from existing driveway; as well as improper placement of curb cut to driveway.