Inlet's Parking Problem Solved

As everyone is aware, the biggest problem in downtown Inlet is the lack of parking space. This topic has been tossed around for years now, and the time has come to seek some remediation because it can only get worse.  On the advice of the powers that be, a committee was formed to look into available options.

The first suggestion that came from the committee’s brainstorming was an underground parking garage(s).  At first glance, this is a terrific idea.  Not only would the town be able to park any number of vehicles underground, but there would be no impact on businesses.  Parking in front of a gift shop or grocery store or bar would not be necessary; therefore, access to storefronts and doorways and decorated windows would be left open for shoppers’ enjoyment and convenience.

Once the committee began looking into the logistics and cost to tunnel under the town, what seemed like a brilliant idea began to look less so. For instance, the water table does not allow for much room under buildings.  Consequently, any building that would be above a parking area would have to be raised up somewhat and braced to prevent it from collapsing into the parking garage. The bracing structures alone would be cost prohibitive. So, it was back to the drawing board for the committee.

Since the only alternative seemed be above ground, the search for viable space began. The field by the Woods Inn was discussed, but that was a thought from the past since the owner has already been kind enough to allow the field’s use for large events, but he is not interested in selling it.  And that seems to be the case for almost any space around town.  The committee concluded that it all came down to using land already under the town’s ownership.

Thus, the committee had to decide what existing area in downtown Inlet would be suitable for public parking. Sadly, that would mean giving up something else.  The decision was not an easy one, but in the long run, it became obvious that for the economic health of downtown Inlet, the present parking lot should be expanded.  The first move would be to demolish the pavilion, extending the parking lot behind Town Hall.  That would probably allow for ten more spaces.  To extend the parking area even further, they recommended removing the Coach’s Cabin as well.  However, this would bring into play the hill upon which part of the building rests.

In order to prevent the necessity of bulldozing the hill and leveling the ground, the committee then looked at going the other way toward the lake. Avoiding the restroom/changing building, the best approach would be to remove the tennis courts, probably the playground, and of course, the ballfield.  That way, the parking lot could be extended to the grass area just above the sand beach and along the boardwalk.  Once that area is blacktopped and lined, Inlet could claim the best, roomiest parking lot in the area.  And the view from the lot would be breathtaking.  

Oh, and by the way, to defray the cost of materials and construction, the town would ask a small parking fee. For those who need to park frequently, permits will be available. Once these decisions were made, it became obvious that the name of the area should be changed from Arrowhead Park to Arrowhead Parking so that tourists would know where to put their vehicles.