BLOOMINGTON — Parking spaces on Sixth Street between Walnut and Washington Street will become back-in angle parking later this week.
The city says the goal is to improve visibility and safety for drivers, pedestrians and cyclists. There have been eight crashes related to cars backing up on the stretch of Sixth Street, according to a news release from the city.
“This change is all about giving drivers a clear view when leaving a parking spot, removing the need to back blindly into oncoming traffic,” says Ryan Robling, Planning Services Manager of the Planning and Transportation Department. “By reversing into a space, drivers can see approaching cars, cyclists, and pedestrians when they pull out, reducing risks of crashes.”
The change will be implemented later this week as crews are ahead of schedule on road maintenance for Sixth Street and other sections of downtown.
The block will also bring a new accessible parking space on the northwest corner of the block near Walnut Street.
To utilize a back-in parking spot, drivers shouldsSignal a right turn to let others know you will be parking. Then, pull past the parking spot and stop before reversing into the parking spot.
The city says back-in parking will help provide unobstructed view for drivers preparing to exit a parking space, and makes loading and unloading more convenient.
