A lot to ask for

We’ve been talking with Postmaster Ron Davis about the parking lot problems at Berkeley Springs Post Office. Last year, the parking area on the side of the building was blocked to those using the main entrance. This prevented most people from parking on the west side of the building and entering or exiting from the south side.

We understand the reason for the change. Apparently drivers were whipping through the south lot and around the building while mail carriers were loading their vehicles. For workers’ safety, more than half of the parking area was blocked off to most of the public, except those entering from the side street on the south end.

This, of course, put more pressure on the north end of the building where the public was expected to park. Many times, we’ve seen cars blocking the entrance while they wait for a space to open up. This is complicated by those who attempt to make an awkward U-turn at the mailbox so they can drop off a letter. Then, add in the head-on parking slots, which cause blind backing up.

In talking with Postmaster Davis, we found him open to ideas about how to make things better. The safety of his employees is foremost in his mind, so no easy answers present themselves.

Last week, he promised to bring up the parking issue with higher-ups to see if something can be done. Since the building and property are actually leased from a private owner, it’s unclear what that might be.

We can only say the lot is a problem. The changes to protect employees have made it less convenient and less safe for customers. And, aside from the lot’s problematic entrance and shape, it seems too small for a growing community, anyway.
Let’s hope there’s an answer.