By Emma Bouthillette 

Staff Writer

Even though summer is coming to an end, Kennebunk Selectmen are looking for solutions to address parking issues on Surf Lane, a side street off of Beach Avenue where a large number beach-goers park their cars. 

The town has received several complaints from Surf Lane residents in regard to the overflow parking from the beach, Town Manager Barry Tibbetts said. Complaints ranged from cars parking too close to driveway aprons and parked cars making it difficult for cars to pass, to trash being left behind and residents witnessing adults and children changing into their bathing suits right in front of their homes.  

On Sept. 9, selectmen reviewed three recommendations the Kennebunk Safety Committee made after assessing the traffic flow and parking on Surf Lane, Tibbetts said. 

The first recommendation would make the section of Surf Lane from Bayberry Avenue toward Beach Avenue one-way, with no parking on the odd numbered side of the street and no parking two spaces near the intersection.

Kennebunk resident John Costin said selectmen should consider reversing the one-way recommendation because the majority of people are accustomed to driving down Beach Avenue then turning on Surf Lane to find parking.  

A second scenario would prohibit parking on the even numbered side of Surf Lane from Bayberry Avenue to Peninsula Drive, also leaving two spaces near the intersections open.

The third recommendation would create a four-way stop at the intersection of Bayberry Avenue and Surf Lane. 

“The solutions proposed maintains the parking, but helps the flow of traffic,” Tibbetts said.  

He said in addition to the safety committee’s recommendation, four residents suggested prohibiting parking 10 feet from driveways and requested signs indicating parking regulations and the location of trash receptacles. 

Selectmen Chairman Wayne Berry said he was concerned adding the buffer around driveways would result in pushing parking further into the neighborhood. 

A public hearing about potential parking changes on Surf Avenue is scheduled for the next selectmen’s meeting at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 23.