State Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton and local leaders are calling for reforms to address escalating parking fees and unauthorized parking at the Brighton Beach municipal parking lot.
Scarcella-Spanton, alongside Council Member Inna Vernikov, Community Board 13 District Manager Eddie Mark and Brighton Beach residents on Jan. 10 highlighted the financial and safety challenges posed by the parking system, with permit fees recently jumping to $625 per quarter from $500, making it one of the most expensive municipal lots in the city, according to a press release.
The senator criticized the high rates as a disproportionate burden on older adults, low-income families and residents on fixed incomes. Additionally, widespread unauthorized parking has left paying permit holders struggling to find spaces, further exacerbating community frustrations.
“The affordability of parking is a major issue for many of my constituents, particularly our older adults living on fixed incomes. It’s clear that the current parking rate of $625 at Brighton Beach is an unfair financial burden on them,” she said.
The goal is to make parking more affordable for older residents, while ensuring municipal parking lots don’t become an unnecessary cash grab for hardworking New Yorkers who are already being burdened with these costs, she said.
For years, residents have reported vehicles parked for extended periods without permits or with expired decals. The lack of enforcement has not only created hardship but also raised safety concerns as residents are forced to park further away and walk home at night through poorly lit areas.
Scarcella-Spanton proposed several solutions, including installing a mechanical gate system, assigning a dedicated parking lot agent, increasing fines for violators and enhancing police enforcement. These measures, she said, would improve safety and restore fairness to the parking system.
She also introduced Senate Bill S9955, which seeks to establish discounted parking permits for residents aged 62 and older who earn 50% or less of the area median income. The legislation aims to provide financial relief to seniors disproportionately affected by rising fees.
Vernikov announced her own legislative effort, Intro #957, which would create municipal parking discounts for seniors.
“The lack of enforcement at the Brighton Beach municipal parking lot is a significant issue," she said. "The reality is that many drivers skip paying for passes, making it unfair for those who pay the steep $625 quarterly fee — which doesn’t even guarantee a spot due to congestion and lack of enforcement."
