Parking

Parking is a necessary component of all developments. A combination of on-street, surface parking lots, and structured parking is proposed to serve the needs of the Commercial Center.

State Street has been designed with extensive on-street parking, as it can moderate traffic speeds, enliven a streetscape, and provide efficient access to shops and services. Additionally, on street parking along Pratt Street will be retained wherever possible.

Access to surface parking lots should be provided from secondary roads within the development as much as possible. Multiple smaller lots are preferred from a visual standpoint, but may not be efficient enough to meet parking demands for the site. When large areas of parking are necessary, they should be discreetly located behind building masses, and further screened and buffered as indicated by the master plan. Large parking areas should not be visible from the Meriden Green or State Street. Appropriate levels of interior and perimeter landscaping should be provided for all surface parking lots to minimize visual impact and to moderate surface temperatures.

Parking structures allow more open space and can be space-efficient and attractive urban amenities. Anticipating future commuter rail transportation needs, a parking structure has been proposed across from the existing post office (future multi-modal transportation center). This structure should be designed to accommodate additional levels of parking should a current or future need exist for additional parking in this area.