Valet Parking To Return In March

An unsuccessful attempt at valet parking in Newtown Borough will be given a second chance, Borough Council decided Tuesday. 

Last fall, the Newtown Corporation and some State Street merchants collaborated to establish a three-month valet parking service trial. The program, which began in November, ended early due to lack of demand.

However, the borough will give it a second chance starting in March and extending through May. A new provider will offer valet parking for $5 instead of $8. 

Gerard O’Malley, council’s liaison to the borough’s parking committee, said there will be an added emphasis by businesses to market the service.

“The initial pilot was underutilized. It just didn’t have the same effect that was hoped for by the business owners,” O’Malley said.

Council member Bob King, who ended up voting in favor of extending the program, questioned if another three months would make any difference.

“I was suprized by how quickly the valet parking disappeared,” he said. “I think the general perception in the community is that it was a failure.”

Council member John Burke said the decreased cost is “probably a little more reasonable” and may attract more customers.

Three spaces in front of will be dedicated to the service. Participants can visit any downtown location; the service isn’t solely for Temperance House diners. Cars are parked at a Court Street lot owned by George Stockburger. 

Council President Bob Walker noted the police department had no issues with valet parking.