SNCH problem extends to Merrick Road

To the Editor:

I just finished reading your article about the parking problems the expanded South Nassau Communities Hospital has caused in the adjoining neighborhoods (“Residents complain about SNCH parking”). 

I was rather intrigued by the statement from Damian Becker that some homeowners are holding up the completion of two lots. The neighbors are upset that the hospital keeps buying up homes for sale only to knock them down for parking. That lot is on Washington Street, where a beautiful colonial once stood. The other lots are located on Merrick Road. I live less than 75 feet from where a muffler shop was for 10 years. The shop was demolished over the past two weeks, but I never received a notice of demolition.

An additional problem and a huge safety issue is the fact that cars now line both sides of Merrick Road, illegally parked. Posted “No Parking” signs are ignored. Two bus stops were removed on the corners of Healthy Way and Chestnut Street and are now home to cars illegally parked by hospital workers and/or visitors. Again, tickets are not issued, so the illegal parking continues. 

The 4th Precinct has been called but there was no response. My children go to School 5, and I fear for their safety as they walk along Merrick Road and cross streets where turning cars would not see them since all these cars parked right up to the curb.

I am glad to see an article but I would hope you would publish something about the situation along Merrick Road, which leads directly to the Oceanside Road intersection of the hospital and school. I know the county needs revenue — it would have ample opportunity if officers would start ticketing these cars that are illegally parked every

single day.  

Tricia Powers

Oceanside