Methuen is clearing the roads for overnight snow, ordering cars off city streets from 8 p.m. Friday to 8 a.m. Saturday under a short snow emergency. The targeted parking ban activates the city’s winter rules and comes with a clear warning: leave your vehicle on a public way and you risk a ticket or a tow.
What drivers need to know
According to the Methuen Police Department, all vehicles must be removed from public ways for the full duration of the snow emergency. Cars left on city streets can be ticketed and towed, and each violation carries a $100 fine.
Where to park and who to call
The city is steering drivers to several backup spots while the ban is in effect. Approved locations include the Pelham Street park-and-ride, the Neil Playstead ballfields at Lawrence and East, municipal lots on Lawrence, Hampshire and Lowell streets, the Methuen High School stadium, and the Recreation Department lot on Ditson Place. For plowing or snow removal concerns, residents are asked to call Methuen DPW at 978-983-8865, according to the City of Methuen.
Why enforcement has changed
The tougher fine and tightened enforcement window are new features this winter, after city leaders and police pressed for stronger penalties to keep streets clear. A recent ordinance change raised the winter parking ticket to $100, with the goal of speeding up plowing and protecting access for emergency vehicles, MethuenLife reported.
Stay safe and plan ahead
If your vehicle is ticketed or towed, you can call the city’s winter parking information line at 978-983-8643 or contact the Methuen Police non-emergency line for details. For the latest word on clearing times and any warming center options, residents are advised to follow Methuen Police News and the city’s alert systems.
