Cape Charles, VA— The influx of short-term rentals like Airbnb in Cape Charles is creating a parking nightmare for residents and tourists alike, as the town’s street grid and limited parking spaces struggle to accommodate the growing number of visitors. The Town Council, grappling with complaints from frustrated locals, has yet to find a sustainable solution to the problem.
Residents have voiced concerns at recent council meetings, citing blocked driveways, overcrowded streets, and difficulty finding parking spaces right in front of their own homes.
The Town has not agreed on whether there is an actual parking problem. At the August 8th work session, Town Manager Hozey noted, “This is the peak (tourist) season and there’s plenty of parking. Why are creating a regulation if we don’t even have a parking problem?”
The Town Council has considered several changes to STR regulations, but none of them tackle the parking problem.
During the work session, Councilman Paul Grossman noted that, according to a recent townwide survey, parking is a significant issue in the R-1 zoning district, the town’s primary residential area. Councilman Andrew Follmer added that the parking problem extends throughout Cape Charles’ historic district, which includes both residential and commercial properties.
However, not all council members agreed on the extent of the issue. Councilman Ken Butta disagreed, asserting that parking is only an issue in certain areas of the historic district, such as Randolph Avenue.
Local business owners are also divided on the issue. While some believe that limiting short-term rentals could drive away tourists and harm the local economy, others argue that the parking problem could turn folks against vacationing in Cape Charles.
As the summer tourist season begins to slow, the pressure is mounting on the Town Council to find a solution.
Councilman Andy Buchholz added that Cape Charles is limited in its ability to regulate parking because the roads are state-owned. Town Manager Hozey summed up the Town’s current approach, “We’ll deal with it later.”
In the meantime, residents and visitors alike will have to navigate the town’s congested streets and hope to find an available parking spot.
Has Mr. Hozey actually ever been in Cape Charles?
yes.
Cape Charles has the ability to enforce strict compliance with off street parking code requirements in new construction or significant redevelopment. On site. On the property being developed. Not decreased by waiver nor satellite parking far away. Look at how any new project is treated by the Town and you have your answer as to how serious they are about the concerns of residents.
There is no parking problem in Cape Charles. I live by the beach and even in the peak of summer I can park on my block. It’s a small town and people should walk anyway and let those with limited mobility drive.
I would suggest at least start with putting the housing numbers on spaces in front of their houses with one visitor parking also and then go from there
This town is run by idiots!
After I solve another problem the town council has created. Let’s meet at Kelly’s for a drink! ( I would pay for a round but I was hit by Biden economic)
1. Every house will be allowed 2 street parking permits in front of their house.
2. STR must prove they have ample parking for their guess plus if there is additional street parking. They will have to apply for additional permits at a fee.
3. BB’s will have to comply just as STR.
4. All unapproved parking will be ticketed and towed at the owner’s expense.
5. Parking meters on Mason and Bay Avenue.
6. And Stop that reverse parking. That will end most of the congestion on Mason.
Do you see what I’m doing?
I’m creating revenue for the town and a towing company.
If Mr Hozey want Cape Charles to be a resort town you have to start being/acting like a resort town.
As the town is now. No one want to come because of the parking problems, the long wait at restaurants and the crowds on the beach. Might as well stay at Ocean City or Virginia Beach. They have more to offer at better prices.
Sorry if the truth hurts, but suck it up Buttercup! Life is tough and it’s harder if your an idiot.
Editor’s Note: VB does have way more to offer at much better prices, better sevrvice, nicer people. And it has an Ocean Beach, not a lukewam piss pool like Cape Charles.
I have plans drawn up that could make cape charles a ton of money and have plenty of parking. But they won’t spend money to make money. If you want my plans I have to be compensated.