This article was contributed by San Benito High School Communications Manager Adam Breen.
On Friday, Oct. 12 the City of Hollister implemented reverse-angle parking on both sides of Monterey Street in front of San Benito High School north to B Street. This occurred on both sides of Monterey Street and will add additional spaces, promote improved driver visibility and easier loading and unloading of vehicles, all while enhancing traffic-calming efforts.
By creating the reverse-angle parking, Hollister is helping to reduce double parking that occurs on both sides of the street, as well as relieving parking congestion in the surrounding neighborhood. The concept of reverse-angle parking is new to Hollister, but it is not new across the country, as it is a staple in many communities.
A few key items:
- 45 to 49 parking spaces will be generated from this project.
- ADA parking will also be available.
- Signage will be provided by the city at both the start and end of the parking spaces.
- Some spaces will be marked green as loading zones directly in front of the school administration building. The new spaces will reduce the pressure on other parking lots for staff, while providing visitors, parents and other community members accessible parking.
The City of Hollister recently placed multiple “School Zone” and 25 mph signs along Nash Street, West Street, and Monterey Street to help create a safer corridor around the campus. These measures, coupled with the new speed tables on Monterey and West streets, speed radars, and the 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. weekday closure of Nash Road beginning on Monday, Oct. 15 following a 10:30 a.m. ceremony, all foster a safer environment around campus.
In addition to the safety measures already completed or underway, the district has conducted a traffic mitigation study at the West and B street intersection to determine whether this intersection should become a four-way stop.