Parking abuses - Second Time Regarding this issue

During the past couple of weeks, I have heard comments at various meetings regarding the need for more “disabled parking” throughout Eureka. It triggered more of a thought from a commentary I listened to on KINS Radio for more disabled parking in Old Town.

It is not more “disabled parking” that is needed, but less abuse of the “parking privilege” that is needed. One only needs to look closer and you see individuals jumping out of vehicles parked in the disabled parking that have no obvious need (Yes, we have good and bad days.). Disabled parking was originally started for those with mobility difficulties.

Instead of looking for additional parking for the disabled, why not address the need for more public transportation that provides a more convenient use in the Old Town area (throughout the community as a matter of fact)? Promote the addition of feeder routes to the larger system, as well as having the transit system provide more service during the hours of operation.

The addition of disabled parking in Old Town is not needed; but the addition of a transit system that is used and supported by the community is what is needed.

Abuse of "Disabled Placards"

was reading a post under "Rants & Raves" in the Humboldt County Section of CL (below).

http://humboldt.craigslist.org/rnr/475476134.html

As a disabled individual confined to a chair from a spinal cord injury, I have used a "Disabled Placard" in various situations. I honestly try not to use it, feeling there are those worst-off.

But this earlier mentioned rant made me consider this issue again. In so doing, I have to agree with the poster. It isn't even funny about the abuse. It is disgusting!

I believe the State of California should color code the Placards. This would kind of identify the sort of disability.

- A blue placard for the non-ambulatory (needs wheelchair, crutches, walker or are leg amputees) and this would be a permanent placard.

- A green placard for the ambulatory conditions(heart poblems, diabetic and so forth), where walking long distances maybe difficult. This may also be a permanent placard.

- A yellow placard would cover all other disabilities that (Broken legs, hips and so on) are short-term disabilities.

This is something the disabled community should consider when addressing our State Representatives.

I can assure you, there is nothing worst to me than seeing an individual with a placard quickly jump from their car or high pick-up and run/walk quickly into a shop and buy something you or I probably could not of even carried without help!

This is just a part of the abuse.