LYNN — The city has a new lot for cars that are towed during snow emergencies, but the goal is for it to get as little use as possible.
Starting this year, cars that are towed will be brought to the Lynn Ferry parking lot on Blossom Street Extension, which is owned and operated by the Economic Development Industrial Corporation (EDIC/Lynn). There will be a minimum $380 charge to retrieve the car – $195 tow fee, $150 ticket, and $35 (per day) storage fee.
“We are pleased to be able to offer this lot to the City for snow emergencies,” said EDIC/Lynn Executive Director James Cowdell. “This location should be easier to access and make the process of retrieving vehicles more efficient.”
Cars were formerly towed to a privately owned lot on Federal Street.
To avoid being ticketed and towed, residents must remove their vehicles from city streets for the duration of the snow emergency. The City offers more than 30 lots for temporary parking. A list of lots can be found at lynnma.gov.
It is easier than ever to get notified when the City declares a snow emergency by signing up for the RAVE/Smart 911 system. Residents can opt in to receive a phone call and/or text message when a snow emergency is declared and when it ends. Go to smart911.com to register.
Parking Director Jessica Chiappini said almost 40,000 people have signed up for RAVE and encouraged those who have not to take advantage of it. The city also announces snow emergencies by displaying flashing blue lights at major intersections, posting on electronic roadway message boards and on the city’s web site, as well as social media accounts. If there any questions as to whether a snow emergency has been called, the Parking Department can be reached at 781-586-6868.
“It is important that people realize they need to have their cars off the streets when the snow emergency begins,” Chiappini said, noting that is often before the first flakes have fallen.
DPW Director Andy Hall said it is critical that cars are moved so the plows can have unfettered access to the streets.
“We can’t do a good job if there are cars on the street,” Hall said. “We appreciate residents’ cooperation.”
Generally, if a parking ban is lifted before 9 p.m., residents have two hours to remove cars from lots. If the parking ban is lifted after 9 p.m., they have until 6 a.m. the next day to remove their cars.
“If you were towed or got a ticket last year, be proactive, and give us a call or come down and talk to us,” she said. “Use us as a resource and find out where you can park. It comes down to the residents being winter-ready and staying informed.”
