Sound Transit soon kicks off an enhanced parking enforcement program at its Sounder stations and park-and-ride lots in an effort to ensure these popular commuter areas are properly used. The move comes after concerns expressed by Sounder commuter rail and ST Express bus riders that parking is overcrowded as a result of vehicles being parked overnight in lots, as well as other infractions. Of the 21 transit centers Sound Transit operates in King, Pierce and Snohomish counties that provide parking, six are at 99-percent capacity or above, and seven are at least 90-percent full.

Beginning Jan. 15, parking guidelines will be emphasized for vehicles parked over 24 hours; in emergency lanes, “no parking” and loading zones; in ADA-designated spaces, where a vehicle is not marked by a state-issued disabled parking placard or license plate; in more than one parking space; and in a manner blocking other vehicles and/or pedestrian pathways.

Sound Transit will provide a one-week grace period for transit lot users. Between Jan. 15 and Jan. 22, warning notices will be given to vehicle owners who park outside the guidelines. Starting Sun., Jan. 23, cars that either exceed the 24-hour limit or fail to observe other regulations may be immediately towed.

The transit agency has installed additional signage at its busiest transit centers to advise lot users of parking regulations. Signs at other Sound Transit-operated locations will also be installed. Additional rider information is available at http://www.soundtransit.org under “How to Ride.”