Jackson Free Press

Businesses in Fondren are skirmishing over limited parking space in the area. Managers and owners of businesses in Fondren Corner say the owners of Lenny's Sub Shop, on the other side of Fondren Place, are cracking down on Fondren Corner patrons who use Lenny's parking.

"They've started calling tow trucks to come get vehicles, and it's really getting to be a problem," said Kathy Glenn, general manager of Rooster's. "We've had patrons suddenly jump up and have to run out to an ATM to pay them not to tow their car. It's just bad for business all around."

Marley Le, owner of Fondren Nails, says one of her customers ran afoul of a tow truck last week and canceled a busy lunchtime appointment this week in favor of a slower hour with easier parking.

"This worries my customers, and it's making them change their schedules," Le said. "I just don't want to lose the business. None of us need to lose business. This is not good for the Fondren area."

"I understand that it's their parking, but we all struggle with parking in Fondren," said Nathan Glenn, owner of Rooster's in Fondren. "I've personally seen Lenny's employees park on our deck and walk over to their job, but I let it go because we've all got the same problem here."

Jeremey Slonaker, co-owner of Lenny's subs, said he has only towed seven vehicles in two weeks, and he denied rumors that the towing companies pay his business.

"We're getting zero money out of this. Nothing," he said. "Once the tow-truck's hooked up, it's between you and the towing guy. They see the tow-truck and they run over here and they find that the towing guy is charging them half-price just to unhook their car. The towing people make that call."

An employee at S&E Towing, who asked not to be identified, said the truck driver will charge car owners even if they arrive before the vehicle is hooked up.

"We charge $75 prior to the hook-up, and an average of $115 after the connection. That young man (Slonaker) is not getting any money out of this. He's just frustrated. That's all it is," the employee said.

Slonaker is working in tandem with the Fondren Post Office, which shares the parking lot, and said he had cleared the towing crackdown with the Jackson Police Department. Lenny's rents the parking lot from property owner Jane Hearn, who did not immediately return calls.

Slonaker said patrons are welcome to use the parking area and then walk across the street to Fondren Corner as long as they have business with one of the shops on the south side of Fondren Place.

"If they want a sandwich or a book of stamps or they need to get their guitar fixed, they can park here and then go across the street, but they need to be having business here. That's all I ask," Slonaker said.

When asked how he discerns between patrons who have no intention of doing business on the south side and those who eventually do, Slonaker said, "I watch them."

Glenn said he worries that the parking battle may have a negative impact on business.

"We've always been a tight little community and I hate to see this kind of thing happen," Glenn said. "Maybe this'll all get cleared up soon, because it'll look bad all around until we do."

Previous Comments

ID

92761

Comment

Parking in that entire area is getting to be bad, even in Fondren Court (Rainbow, etc). In fact, several times in the past month I've not been able to find a parking spot in the big lot in the afternoon. I guess the area is getting a bit too popular for its own good. As far as the owner of Lenny's goes, that's pretty low to call in a towing service. That ranks right up there with love for the metermaids. I certainly won't be visiting that establishment.

Author

hawkeye

Date

2007-05-31T16:16:06-06:00

ID

92762

Comment

I guess I got lucky when I parked in the lower lot behind Lenny's for lunch at Rooster's a few weeks ago, but there was absolutely no place else to park nearby, and if these businesses expect to have large numbers of repeat lunch customers they need to work out a compromise or find alternative parking spaces.

Author

Jeff Lucas

Date

2007-05-31T16:26:52-06:00

ID

92763

Comment

it should be first come, first served, though Ace hardware reserves a few spots, maybe they could do that! as far as too busy for it's own good, this is only the beginning. but don't forget the lovely trolley and its trolleyman driver who waved at me today. gotta get on that thing soon

Author

Izzy

Date

2007-05-31T16:48:31-06:00

ID

92764

Comment

I agree with Jeff... This doesn't sound like a Lenny's problem. Sounds like the businesses in FoCo (Fondren Corner) need to establish better parking for their customers. That one deck ain't going to cut it and the few in the front aren't adequate. Why should Lenny's customers have to walk further because Rooster's customers are occupying the wrong property? All in all, I'm happy to know there's a parking problem in the first place. It will only get worse once Duling is done unless the developers in that area (which seem to be involved in most of the developments in Fondren proper) address it.

Author

kaust

Date

2007-05-31T16:49:21-06:00

ID

92765

Comment

Yes, it may be time to see about clearing out some land behind the businesses on the west side of State St. You could put a good parking area down behind Que Sera, the bank, and Schimmels.

Author

pikersam

Date

2007-05-31T17:15:12-06:00

ID

92766

Comment

Are you kidding me? Clear land and build another parking lot in Jackson? WOW.... I guess that mentality is the result of us growing up in the suburbs. Are we just lazy and cant walk a short distance? Seriously if you want the surburban environment then move to madison where there is ample parking for you at Walmart.

Author

Concerned in Jacktown

Date

2007-05-31T20:18:50-06:00

ID

92767

Comment

I'm a great advocate of public transportation and we've had long discussions about it in here before, but we don't have serious public transportation (per, say, the European model of London, Paris, Berlin) and won't anytime soon. In the meantime, if Lenny's is going to tow cars from that lot it's going to make a serious impact on the businesses in Fondren Corner. I was there today during the towing and spent my money at two businesses but they were worried. They pay high rent to be in Fondren Corner based on there being a certain volume of foot traffic. If that traffic decreases, their rent is not going to decrease and it's certainly not out of the question that a restriction on parking could mean an economic hardship for them - and for the businesses in Fondren Court (Rainbow, etc.) as well. Until we have serious public transportation here, what's wrong with building another parking lot? Customers drive cars; they need to park. If they can't park, they'll go somewhere else - but we need their business in Jackson proper, not in Madison. Parking - somewhere - is part of a vital city unless there's a serious public transportation alternative.

Author

lucdix

Date

2007-05-31T20:37:51-06:00

ID

92768

Comment

lucdix, I'd just typed up a lengthy post about public transportation.... then I thought it was too much of a ramble. But, I'm glad to see I'm not the only one that thinks it's the key here. FWIW, I like Chicago's public transportation as much as I like London's... though, it's hard to beat a double decker bus (even though the tube - and London itself, for that matter - closes WAY too early). But, THAT is the key here. JATRAN, in its current state, is not public transportation at all. Hell, even their website claims that "hundreds of Jackson residents who enjoy public transportation in Jackson by using JATRAN services." Hundreds?!?! Good lord. Barring a much-needed impeachment, we're another mayoral election away from even dreaming about having BAD public transportation (JATRAN is much, much worse than "bad"). The prior mayor would probably be addressing this as we speak, since it was one of his targets. Grandstanding, lying and drinking are about the only things in the sights of the current...person. The needs of the citizens of Jackson are undoubtedly the furthest thing from his mind.

Author

millhouse

Date

2007-05-31T20:59:39-06:00

ID

92769

Comment

Agreed on the need for people to diversity transporation, and be willing to look for a parking space more than half a block away. (Be good for our obesity problem, too.) However, I was also in Fondren Corner today, which is how we found out. People were saying that they went out to move their cars when heard they were towing, and the towing company charged them $75 just to get their car back, even if it wasn't hooked up to the wrecker. I have a serious problem with this, under the circumstances. There was also a certain gleefulness to all the towing that made little sense to me. I heard customers in Fondren Corner telling their kids they wouldn't go to Lenny's anymore because of the way they were acting. I've liked Lenny's to date, as chains go, and I hate to see them get so extreme about this. It ultimately can't be good for their business to do so. I think people need to calm down a bit and figure it out without driving business out of Fondren. Today was over the top. The other problem I have is that I don't think for one minute that they can be sure of what cars they're towing, and whether or not someone parked there, ran over to pick up something in Fonden Corner, then plan to get Lenny's on their way out. In a walking neighborhood, are customers supposed to park separately to go to each business?

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-05-31T21:00:44-06:00

ID

92770

Comment

I think there is plenty wrong with another parking lot... especially in the fondren area.... the last mixed use urban area in jackson. The sad thing about Jackson is what we once had. Jackson WAS a booming city full of beautiful architecture... most of which has been razed for parking lots. What we are left with is a city of wonderful parking lots. You should see the study done for the city on the downtown partners website. Our problem is not parking. We have become lazy and accustomed to the covenience of parking at the front door of whatever retail we choose. Take the mall at northpark, metro, dogwood, or the latest and greatest renaissance. Its full of convenience for the shooper... My point is we have a cultural problem and not a mass transportation problem. We are additcted to our cars. What I love about fondren is I dont need to park anywhere around lennys. I can just WALK!

Author

Concerned in Jacktown

Date

2007-05-31T21:05:06-06:00

ID

92771

Comment

I'm personally very interested in having a vital Fondren, Belhaven, and downtown after 5, millhouse, and I truly love public transportation. In Germany the only time I needed my car was for long trips way into the country (back roads - I could reach small towns by train or bus and did). In the city I lived in (Stuttgart) I had frequent buses, trams, and suburban trains to choose from plus overland trains (to Paris/Baden-Baden/Zurich/Munich/Vienna or to Italy, etc.) at all hours. I used to buy monthly and yearly passes so it was always very reasonable. I could check the schedules either in a book I bought every half a year from the central transportation office for a very reasonable price (which included a map) or I could just go to the bus stop and see that a bus would be coming at, say, 7:23 - and sure enough, there it would be at 7:23 - and this until late at night - plus there were all-night routes. That's simply not the case here and Fondren/Belhaven/downtown businesses need customers. And it's not as if all of the customers for Fondren Corner or Fondren Court businesses live within walking distance. I think the area pikersam mentions would be an ideal place for a parking lot. It's very tight at Fondren Corner right now and that's a good thing because it means the Fondren Corner experiment has worked out so well. Just a few years ago it was an empty Wildlife and Fisheries building.

Author

lucdix

Date

2007-05-31T21:12:48-06:00

ID

92772

Comment

The car-towing situation at Fondren reminds of the Buckhead area in Atlanta. As crowded as Peachtree Street is, if you park at one parking lot and walk across the street to another establishment, your car will be booted. That happened to me one time. I parked in the parking lot where Tower Records is/was located. I walked to a nearby shopping center (Phipps or Lenox--I can't recall) and I saw a man put a boot on my car when I came back. I was charged $50 to get it off. I even had a Mississippi tag on my car, even though I was living there. What kind of message would that send to a tourist? You best believe I never went back afterwards. This kind of attitude is only one reason why our culture is so car-addicted. I don't know what possessed me to drive there as I normally would take MARTA to get around in the ATL. Something does, however, need to be done about parking in Fondren for the short term. A parking lot may have to be built. I personally wouldn't mind parking at either the stadium or at UMC's parking lot and walking to Fondren businesses. Sometimes, it's just good to walk.

Author

golden eagle

Date

2007-05-31T21:23:53-06:00

ID

92773

Comment

As far as parking close by in Fondren somewhere and walking to Fondren Corner, I know someone who lives on Fondren Street - right across State Street from Fondren Corner - and she regularly finds people parked blocking her driveway because they can't find a parking space closer. They walk to the Fondren Corner businesses at the price of taking up parking on nearby streets. A frequent shuttle bus up from the UMC parking lot might work - and might get a lot of traffic up to Fondren from people who work at UMC, but my stays in Fondren Corner (or Fondren Court - Rainbow, the hardware store, the computer store, Cup's) are always quick - I order ahead of time from Basil's or drop off or pick up laundry - I like to get in and out - so it's not a question of walking as such but walking during a business day when I'm in a hurry and really can't afford the time (or have things to transport). I prefer to do my walking in the evening at leisure.

Author

lucdix

Date

2007-05-31T21:34:26-06:00

ID

92774

Comment

If you look at Google maps you will see plenty of parking - if the businesses cooperate. Sure I said build a new one; but then I see how they are wasting the space behind the Capri. I thought there was a stairway between some businesses to get from back there up to State St? Golden Eagle, it sounds like you've been to Atlanta. How about the Highlands or L5P? It was a fight just to get parking anywhere close. To park free you have to go into the neighborhoods and walk. That is fine! And, I would love to walk to Fondren Marshall; yet, I am too far away and don't won't to risk my life trying to ride my bike down Ridgewood and Old Canton. So, if you want the businesses to thrive and the area to get hipper then you need to welcome your car driving overlords that come visit. ;-) Once I get to Fondren, I'll park where I can and walk. It's not like I live on Oxford Ave. and can just walk to get a soda. That is how it is for any area you want to become hip and an entertainment destination. You are going to have all kinds of folks driving in to come shop, eat and play. It's great that some people can live and work in the area; but, if that is all you rely on for business, then you can expect it to go back to the sleepy little area it used to be.

Author

pikersam

Date

2007-05-31T21:44:43-06:00

ID

92775

Comment

A simple expansion of Fondren Corner Parking would be behind St. Luke's Methodist Church on Duling, but I asked Mike Peters about it one day and he said they weren't interested, but it could be off-limits to any but parishioners anytime they needed it if they were and an income source for the church besides. You're right, Pikersam, there's also plenty of space behind Butterfly Yoga, the Capri, etc.

Author

lucdix

Date

2007-05-31T21:52:51-06:00

ID

92776

Comment

We charge $75 prior to the hook-up Can someone explain to me why you couldn't just get in to your car and move it before they could hook you up? Am I missing something here? (I'm generally not privy watching towing in action...) And I agree with the folks about about people being too lazy - wanting to park right out in front, instead of a few hundred feet away. Last I heard, we (or maybe it's now Louisiana) were the fattest state in the Union.

Author

hawkeye

Date

2007-05-31T22:04:36-06:00

ID

92777

Comment

This ain't Mayberry folks... It's been a mantra on this site many times. As someone mentioned, this is very much akin to Atlanta. Hell, drive to 5 Points and you'll see the same problem... You'll quickly get towed and there will be little to no parking. I know plenty of y'all have been to the Quarter and experienced the parking there... Jackson has nothing on it. Shhhhh.... Simma down now! If Lenny's owns or has rights to the property, it's theirs. It's quite simple. Park somewhere else. Why should Lenny's pay for your parking and Rooster's not pay a cent? Makes no sense. Again, this ain't Mayberry. Sounds like FoCo needs to develop some parking and stop infringing on their neighbor's lots... By the way, I'm having a party this weekend and don't have the space.... So, I'll be having it at your place instead. Don't b!tch about it! It's, er, community. If it burns Lenny's, let it... Rooster's needs to find parking for their 20+ tables... That's their business decision to be there and have no dedicated parking developed. You won't see the same problem at S&M's and QSS [yuck] down the street. They made the space for their customers on their own lots. And, amen to the obesity problem and how walking a block or two could be a hidden benefit. A Jackson block won't kill you... Or, maybe it will if you keep eating that fried chicken and onion ring. ;-)

Author

kaust

Date

2007-05-31T22:23:03-06:00

ID

92778

Comment

This ain't Mayberry? Considering some of the hijinks down at City Hall, you could have fooled me. I agree that Lenny's was perfectly within its rights to have the cars towed, though it would seem that they could have worked out some sort of solution with Fondren Corners before it happened. Maybe they tried and it didn't work out. As far as how Lenny's could keep track of who parked there, I was thinking about the solution my bank uses downtown. To bank there, you have to drive into a gated parking lot. The only way you can get out is if you have a token (free) which the bank provides after your transaction. The gate accepts no currency. That way you could get a sandwich at Lenny's and wander down to Cups. I don't know what systems like that cost - and I'm sure they're not cheap - but it would seem to me as a business owner it would be worth it rather than alienate people. I buy sandwiches both at Lenny's and at Basil's and now and then at Rooster's. Parking is important to all the businesses in the Fondren area and there's not enough on-street parking without parking on neighboring streets which is not fair to the residents, legal though it might be. I can't say that I see that Fondren is akin to anywhere in Atlanta I've ever been or to the Quarter. We're talking about a relatively small number of smaller businesses who are dependent of the vast majority of their customers being able to park somewhere. LA is a parking nightmare with opposite-side parking every other day (so the street cleaners can work) plus boots as well. In cities with pedestrian areas - which the Fondren business area could easily become - there's ample parking everywhere on the periphery and more than adequate public transportation available for others to get there. A parking area behind the Capri would work - and wouldn't even need to be a parking structure - but it's unrealistic to think that people are going to walk too far, whether they should or not so as to combat obesity. It depends on the businesses, too, of course. McDade's is the main store where people need to park their cars close by so as to be able to transport groceries.

Author

lucdix

Date

2007-05-31T23:05:46-06:00

ID

92779

Comment

Park at UMC or the stadium? Have you seen that place during the day? There is not enough parking for the UMC employees and students now. Surely there is room on the west side of State somewhere. Does the new construction plan to add public parking at all? I understand it will have underground parking for residents and parking "behind" for "guests" but that had better not be all!?

Author

msreader

Date

2007-06-01T03:25:28-06:00

ID

92780

Comment

I really hope the Duling development has a parking solution... Otherwise, FoCo may be shooting itself in the foot. Hell, it's already a traffic nightmare around 5. Can you imagine what another strip of retail, dense residential, and commercial will do to the mostly two-lane streets? Seems like a logistical nightmare - all the sudden - and Lenny's parking issue is but a small needle in a problematic haystack. Developers: there are tons of empty storefronts a few blocks up in NoFo with AMPLE parking lots and four lane roads connecting to I-55 and 2-20... Even a post office. Certainly a more diverse makeup ranging from 20-100 years old and a racial make-up of black, white, Hispanic, and Asian... Families, gays, college students, empty nesters, and single professionals with a growing number of homeowners vs renters... What's the hold up?

Author

kaust

Date

2007-06-01T07:18:16-06:00

ID

92781

Comment

I realize this is slightly off-topic but does anyone know what's going on with Article and 119? Looked rather empty the other night as if Article was no longer there. Anyone know more?

Author

kaust

Date

2007-06-01T07:20:59-06:00

ID

92782

Comment

Knol, I don't know why they had to go and make it such a traffic nightmare. I know that they needed a few spaces in front of the building; but, even in areas like L5P, Buckhead, and the Highlands (kinda) they have a MAJOR 4 lane road going through it. I would have rather seen State St. narrowed to 4 lanes from 5 (the turn lane) right there and wider sidewalks down each side of the street. That would allow for tables for coffee shops, sidewalk performers, and retail displays.

Author

pikersam

Date

2007-06-01T07:36:52-06:00

ID

92783

Comment

Knol, James Patterson (who ran Gallery 119) is now using that space as his photography studio. Jimbo Harwell (who ran Article) is still doing freelance graphic design out of this same location, but Article has moved its retail into space at OfficeSource that is near the Venice Pizza Co.

Author

bobnoxious

Date

2007-06-01T07:57:45-06:00

ID

92784

Comment

Cool... Thanks for the 411 bob.

Author

kaust

Date

2007-06-01T07:58:50-06:00

ID

92785

Comment

Lenny's should be more "neighborly". Towing cars is not the solution. A parking problem is a good thing, it means people are utilizing the area which is what we want here in Jackson. Historically people park in other people's spaces, no need to get hostile by towing their cars. Part of the beauty of a place like Fondren is walking. Everytime I'm in the area I see something I have not noticed before. If you're in any other city with shops, eateries, etc. you're going to run into the same problem. Let's make it work and not be hostile. Lenny's has to operate in the area, the last thing they should want to do is p$$$off the other businesses. It makes me not want to support a business that would treat customers, whosever they are, like that.

Author

maad

Date

2007-06-01T08:36:55-06:00

ID

92786

Comment

Seriously, before it gets worse, the Fondren business owners need to brainstorm some solutions. You can't blame Lenny's, they pay dearly so that customers can patronize their restaurant. There are some solutions. An alternatively-fueled van or shuttle, electric or solar-charged batteries would be great (Florida solar center), that could shuttle customers between a seldom-used parking lot and the Fondren area businesses. Before Katrina, there were several hybrid trolleys running on the Gulf Coast. Business owners could come up with a plan to share the costs. Of course, don't look to the city to help with the cost of that, but I am willing to bet that there is a grant out there that could get the ball rolling.

Author

lanier77

Date

2007-06-01T08:41:39-06:00

ID

92787

Comment

Matt is taking Jatran downtown to the trial every day. Now, THERE'S a thought. ;-) I do think that Lenny's is going too far, and with a bit too much glee. That doesn't mean they don't have the RIGHT to, but sometimes you solve problems with a bit of restraint and good will. I wasn't impressed with what I saw yesterday.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-06-01T09:05:59-06:00

ID

92788

Comment

About walking in Fondren, will people with special needs be taken into consideration? For instance, my mom has foot problems and my sister is expecting. How much walking should they do to get any shopping done, especially with kids in tow in 100-degree heat? What about the elderly?

Author

LatashaWillis

Date

2007-06-01T09:18:46-06:00

ID

92789

Comment

well, it's true that you can't have it both ways - i.e., if you want a thriving, hip neighborhood you will have to give up the ease of always sliding into a parking spot just where you need one. right?

Author

Izzy

Date

2007-06-01T09:35:14-06:00

ID

92790

Comment

My opinion has been and still is this ... you can't expect an area to be revitalized and continue to develop and prosper without new parking areas for the cars the people coming back into these areas will be driving. Since Fondren is an already established community, it's a little too late to think about master planning. However, the sky is literally the limit and rather than clear land and structures to expand our already obtrusive stretch of asphalt jungle, let's build well designed vertical spaces to house the vehicles while the people get off their chunky butts to "go walkin' Mississippi!" If Fondren is going to be urban, let's start designing, building, looking, and acting like an urban, downtown community.

Author

Design Matters

Date

2007-06-01T09:36:20-06:00

ID

92791

Comment

RIGHT! People with special needs are easily accomodated with the existing parking. The original argument was providing MORE convenient parking for "everyone" rather than those with special needs. Back on subject IZZY is exactly right. What we need to focus on is what makes Fondren successful. Its not the ample parking at the front door of the retailers... but rather the character and uniqueness developed in the community. If we begin razing properties for parking lots we will destroy what makes the community sucessful. This is not a planned development focused on parking. If you want to make the mass transit issue... look at Washington DC. Mass transit works on a large level... connecting remote areas of a city. However, once you leave the transit system... you must walk. Usually several blocks. Whats the difference here? Why must we have such convenient parking? I would suggest developing the UMC lot to be a more dense parking sistuation.

Author

Concerned in Jacktown

Date

2007-06-01T09:46:47-06:00

ID

92792

Comment

i apologize for my inability to proof-read...

Author

Concerned in Jacktown

Date

2007-06-01T09:49:17-06:00

ID

92793

Comment

RIGHT! People with special needs are easily accomodated with the existing parking. The original argument was providing MORE convenient parking for "everyone" rather than those with special needs. I should have clarified my prior statement, but what I meant was that with the current parking situation, how would it work for those with special needs if the current spaces are not designated for them? How many of them are now?

Author

LatashaWillis

Date

2007-06-01T09:56:14-06:00

ID

92794

Comment

Right on, Marshall! You know we're destined to revolutionize this town ...

Author

Design Matters

Date

2007-06-01T10:26:48-06:00

ID

92795

Comment

Having lived in LA and Oakland, both very dense population wise, I would MUCH perfer in my day to day doings to park on a residential side street & walk over to the action RATHER than park in an ugly-ass multi-level stinky, scary garage. Think about it.

Author

Izzy

Date

2007-06-01T10:45:02-06:00

ID

92796

Comment

by scary I mean not safe for women esp. after dark. Truly in LA & basically most dense urban areas parking is get it when you can. Residents near shopping district expect to have to look a bit for a spot & don't get uptight when people park on their street.

Author

Izzy

Date

2007-06-01T10:46:27-06:00

ID

92797

Comment

but this is an important conversation, cause one thing I love about MS is the low density of it all. So we can maybe put our minds together to at least choose the most attractive way to handle this growing issue

Author

Izzy

Date

2007-06-01T10:48:19-06:00

ID

92798

Comment

I had a guy from some Fondren trolley drop some free tokens in our office building yesterday, took them home but am curious what routes the trolley runs? Is this trolley a private venture or are the Fondren merchants all supporting it? The brochure that came with the tokens said it went between UMC and Fondren but that is about all. If it made regular stops at some places like the Baptist hospital, St. D's and maybe Capitol Street it seems like that would be good for business, ie, the lunch crowd.

Author

GLewis

Date

2007-06-01T10:50:34-06:00

ID

92799

Comment

I'm assuming you wouldn't be one of the residents who had to deal with the cars parked in front of their home? I think it will irritate the residents and prove to be unsafe for children to play in their yards and the streets. However, I am not opposed to it entirely. I just don't think that is the best and only alternative. I would like to see a combination of solutions. Consider Chicago and other major urban areas that have successfully integrated parking towers in the downtown areas along with mass transit which takes you to the residential neighborhoods where people park along the street. I appreciate your comments, but there is no need to be insulting, Izzy.

Author

Design Matters

Date

2007-06-01T10:53:19-06:00

ID

92800

Comment

Women's safety for resident's safety? I don't think it's a fair trade off when you are simply transferring a problem from one structure to another.

Author

Design Matters

Date

2007-06-01T10:58:44-06:00

ID

92801

Comment

And, please, don't misunderstand me when I say that I would like to see a parking tower constructed. I prefer it to traditional parking lots and given the existing layout of Fondren, I think it is a practical way to encourage further development without compromising the integrity of its historic buildings and the greenscape. It's design can make a huge difference in one's emotions towards any new structure. Aesthetics, safety, convenience, and budget will be important factors to consider. Just because the majority are poorly designed does not mandate Fondren's choice in what is or is not appropriate design.

Author

Design Matters

Date

2007-06-01T11:09:25-06:00

ID

92802

Comment

wasn't trying to be insulting...confused on that...didn't mean personal insult or anything like it. and I have been one of the residents that has people park on my street when they are shopping. as I said, I've lived in neighborhoods in Oakland and LA where this very same issue takes place. So, not speaking out of lack of experience. But, agreed, it is a different situation when the neighborhood is changing so rapidly, as people who have purchased homes may have expectations that things will remain the same

Author

Izzy

Date

2007-06-01T11:13:34-06:00

ID

92803

Comment

probably neighboorhoods will fight back with restrictions on street parking. that also happens in certain areas of LA & the like...time restrictions or in some cases, needing sticker for parking

Author

Izzy

Date

2007-06-01T11:14:46-06:00

ID

92804

Comment

also, parking IN FRONT of a driveway is inexcusable no matter what. that's where towing comes in.

Author

Izzy

Date

2007-06-01T11:19:51-06:00

ID

92805

Comment

ok, so you're saying a parking garage doesn't have to be ugly/stinky? Am interested...

Author

Izzy

Date

2007-06-01T11:26:54-06:00

ID

92806

Comment

I design buildings and so I tend to take a comment like, "an ugly-a** multi-level stinky, scary garage" personally, although I am sure you did not intend it to be. I think we would both strongly agree that parking garages are generally ugly and unsafe. Therefore, it seems we should object not so much to the function of a multi-level garage, but to the design of it. I, too, live in a downtown residential neighborhood (Belhaven) and dislike the idea of a parking garage in the *neighborhood*, but I also dislike the idea of people parking along the perimeter of my home day and night in order to get to the action. Occasionally, cool. Go for it! Enjoy a downtown weekend event or block party. But to feel like I'm surrounded by a automobile barricade on a regular basis is a completely different story! And where would one's personal visitors to a private residence park if no space was available?

Author

Design Matters

Date

2007-06-01T11:32:48-06:00

ID

92807

Comment

The cool shopping area in Asheville has a nice parking garage right next door for shoppers. And, the parking garage downtown on West and Pascagoula is nice looking. So, yes you can have a good looking multi-story garage.

Author

pikersam

Date

2007-06-01T11:43:11-06:00

ID

92808

Comment

I do agree with Donna that Lenny's shouldn't press the towing issue like they are. The owners are going to have to get together and work on a co-op parking situation.

Author

pikersam

Date

2007-06-01T11:44:29-06:00

ID

92809

Comment

Occasionally, cool. Go for it! Enjoy a downtown weekend event or block party. But to feel like I'm surrounded by a automobile barricade on a regular basis is a completely different story - Design Matters Yeah, I get you. Makes sense. I've only seen one garage out of dozens that wasn't awful. I'm open to ideas I just have lived in enough urban areas to get a bit negative at all this growth - freaks me out as I love Jackson the way it is. But I contradict myself too because I want it to grow.

Author

Izzy

Date

2007-06-01T11:51:19-06:00

ID

92810

Comment

Smaller cars are one portion of the parking problems. Also, we should aim toward parking in the middle of the block and not taking so much of the valuable sidewalk/street frontage. But mass transit that is convenient is the best current solution.

Author

ChrisCavanaugh

Date

2007-06-01T12:09:49-06:00

ID

92811

Comment

Fondren is the right fit for some type of environmentally friendly small scale transit system.... try to hold on to as much green space as possible and create more walking areas, that's part of the whole appeal of that area.

Author

lanier77

Date

2007-06-01T12:28:41-06:00

ID

92812

Comment

I'm back! Had to refuel :) Yes, I was going to mention the garage on the corner of Pascagoula and West also. Not to say that it is the epitome of our ideal, but it does have many points of merit, the most notable being the beautiful wall mural created by William Goodman (if you don't know what I'm talking about, drive east on Pascagoula and look to your left before you cross West). Love the idea of public artwork being displayed on the concrete walls of the structure, whether they be interior or exterior (not to be confused with gang graffiti, of course). It is a touch of human detail that is very urban and poetic.

Author

Design Matters

Date

2007-06-01T12:35:02-06:00

ID

92813

Comment

I'm open to ideas I just have lived in enough urban areas to get a bit negative at all this growth - freaks me out as I love Jackson the way it is. But I contradict myself too because I want it to grow. - Izzy Isn't that such a shame that poor design can influence our perspective in such a negative way? Of course, you are correct that Jackson is a wonderful place to live! Just as it does not have the advantages of a large urban environment, it also does not have the negative side effects that usually accompany it. It will be impossible to find a solution that satisfies everyone and I'm sure that the solution that is pursued won't be without it's critics and issues.

Author

Design Matters

Date

2007-06-01T12:49:41-06:00

ID

92814

Comment

i have thought that a parking garage would be a good solution, but what about even some type of "underground parking"? like an underground garage? that way it would be out of sight and things could be built on top of it. i have no knowledge of architecture or urban planning so maybe that is not a reasonable idea for the area, but it's an idea. i think Lenny's has the right to tow but it also is very discouraging to people. i would be afraid that, even if i did eat there but then wanted to go across the street for something, I'd be towed. i think as long as you patronize the business you should be able to park there, even if after lunch you go do some other shopping. that's just the way those types of multi-use areas work.

Author

music chick

Date

2007-06-01T13:08:01-06:00

ID

92815

Comment

Agreed. For an interior decorator... you are pretty smart :) wink:) I agree with Lanier on the need to preserve green space and maintain fondren as a pedestrian friendly area. The area can grow... but that growth cannot be designed around cars. I feel if the parking is #1 priority... the growth may become a cancer to the area.

Author

Concerned in Jacktown

Date

2007-06-01T13:11:57-06:00

ID

92816

Comment

I need to do some actual work today... but I think a parking structure is a viable solution second to convenient mass transit system. Assuming our addiction to cars will not change anytime soon, I believe a parking structure, mixed use in nature would be the ticket. Locate the structure on the parking lot for UMC students and establish a cooperative between state and private entities. This precedent is set for Jackson downtown @ the pinnacle and hopefully with the King Edward and Standard life. I apologize Design Matters for the Interior Decorator comment. You know I respect your input in regards to this. Its these types of discussions that promote awareness within this community.

Author

Concerned in Jacktown

Date

2007-06-01T13:27:10-06:00

ID

92817

Comment

I'll never forgive you, MARSHIE-POO. You're out of the family! But, wait. Did I ever really let you in?

Author

Design Matters

Date

2007-06-01T13:32:14-06:00

ID

92818

Comment

Does anyone else think it's a little strange that a chain like Lenny's is even in Fondren? In my mind, it's like having a Starbucks in Fondren. But then again, there is a Starbucks in my little hometown. (eek!) On a different note: Marshie-poo??? :)

Author

Lady Havoc

Date

2007-06-01T13:36:04-06:00

ID

92819

Comment

Get ready, Lady, Starbucks is coming soon to the first suburb of Jackson near you! Marshie-poo is an inside nickname ... he's my big, little bro!

Author

Design Matters

Date

2007-06-01T13:44:06-06:00

ID

92820

Comment

I like Lenny's... don't mind it being there. It's a chain but since it started in nearby Memphis, I feel like it's not quite yet the same as having a Starbucks there. I was excited to find that we had them here when I moved back from Memphis, actually.

Author

music chick

Date

2007-06-01T13:58:18-06:00

ID

92821

Comment

GIVE ME A BREAK!!!!!!!! I am in complete support of Lenny's. Correct me if I'm wrong, Fondren Corner has security everyday only allowing their customers to park in their parking lot.......If Rooster's and the other business owners in Fondren Corner were so pro-business and open minded about parking why do they have security....I'll tell you why..Because they do not want anyone parking in their parking lot that does not do business in Fondren Place. It seems like Lenny's is just trying to take care of their customers......Fondren Corner should do the same thing for their customers and quit trying to blame other area bussinesses for their problems.

Author

jackman22

Date

2007-06-01T15:05:39-06:00

ID

92822

Comment

DM: Have to chuckle. We have a Starbucks here, but have never been. Too swanky for this country girl. :)

Author

Lady Havoc

Date

2007-06-01T15:06:36-06:00

ID

92823

Comment

yeah... thanks my little big sis...

Author

Concerned in Jacktown

Date

2007-06-01T15:32:09-06:00

ID

92824

Comment

Starbucks gave food, coffee ANd volunteers to the Chick Ball. I heard they are bringing one to High St. and I plan on going there if they do. Yes, I go to Cups, too. BUT before I get FLAMED I know no one else agrees with me that there are any benefits to the evil empire of Starbucks.. (We had a long discussion on Sbucks vs. Cups last year one on of these threads)

Author

Izzy

Date

2007-06-01T15:43:26-06:00

ID

92825

Comment

I didn't know Lenny's wasn't a Jackson chain. I had a sub there at the Clinton location yesterday which wasn't very good. Had a good one once at Lenny's off Ridgewood but waited forever to get it. Isn't there a Fondren Neighborhood or Business Association for meditating this kind of parking issue?

Author

Izzy

Date

2007-06-01T15:45:18-06:00

ID

92826

Comment

They built a HUGE underground parking garage at the Getty Center in LA. You actually park there then take an electric monorail up to the museum site. Looks fab. Though I hated that garage, too - think I just hate being in enclosed spaces full of gasoline residue. Plus being 7 floors underground anywhere near the San Andreas fault is a bit nervewracking

Author

Izzy

Date

2007-06-01T15:47:59-06:00

ID

92827

Comment

Kidos, here's the deal. Does it really matter whether or not the business is local or a mega-chain? I am just so excited to see individuals and corporations, local or not, invest their time, talent, and resources into our community!!! Rather than the Fondren become historically extinct due to abandonment, shouldn't we be celebrating the fact that people love the ecclectic nature of the downtown neighborhoods and that new people are tripping over one another to move into the once dilapidated homes and buildings that were left only a few years ago for the pigeons? Take for example the old Duling school that will soon not only be restored, but also adapted for reuse so we and others from outside the city (who, unfortunately, won't be able to find a parking space!) will have well-designed, safe, and hip new places to mix and mingle and spend their incomes! That benefits you and me! It increases property values and creates a higher quality of living. I'm all for it! Plus, I have to admit, I'm not a coffee drinker, but I am a sub eater and Lenny's is a guilty pleasure that has only served to highten my enjoyment of my Thursday night ritual of watching The Office!

Author

Design Matters

Date

2007-06-01T16:04:33-06:00

ID

92828

Comment

being 7 floors underground anywhere near the San Andreas fault is a bit nervewracking membership has its privileges ;) You can't expect to only have sun 'n' fun in SoCal.

Author

hawkeye

Date

2007-06-01T16:05:28-06:00

ID

92829

Comment

DM, I'm a Lenny's fan also. I've bought subs at the Ridgewood location, and yes, it can take a while. I do hope that the parking situation is resolved. If I ever get my own place again, I would like to live in that area. Personally, I don't mind walking. It's just when you have people with you who don't want to and are yelling, "Are we there yet?" I don't just mean kids, either.

Author

LatashaWillis

Date

2007-06-01T16:43:49-06:00

ID

92830

Comment

I don't think that Lenny's is being overly aggressive as it has been suggested in previous comments. Actually what they are doing seems to be a defensive move. I regularly eat at Lenny's, (gotta LOVE that meatball sub and the chicken philly is Oh-so-good) but I have been guilty of abandoning my lunch craving when I drive by and can find no parking. I have been in the restaurant when they were far from busy, but yet there was nary a parking spot to be had. I've seen people walk in droves from the south corner's parking over to Roosters / Walker's etc. While the parking situation is unfortunate, Lenny's is doing good by their customers by securing them close and adequate parking. Those who can not find available parking for Fondren Corner need to take that up with those business owners and managers. Yes, we are a community and we are neighbors, but businesses still need to protect their interests. It would be one thing if Fondren Corner and the "south side" could come to an agreement and stick by it, but there is no way for either side to control the actions of all of its customers. OH - and as for ladd's comment: The other problem I have is that I don't think for one minute that they can be sure of what cars they're towing, and whether or not someone parked there, ran over to pick up something in Fonden Corner, then plan to get Lenny's on their way out. I know for a fact that one of Lenny's owners has watched that back parking lot for hours during lunch time each day. The people that get towed are definitely not doing business with any of the "south side" businesses and are parking in front of signs that say they will be towed.

Author

Mercurial

Date

2007-06-01T16:55:04-06:00

ID

92831

Comment

Does it really matter whether or not the business is local or a mega-chain? I am just so excited to see individuals and corporations, local or not, invest their time, talent, and resources into our community!!! Amen to this!! I agree, I am excited to see these things happening in Fondren, too. If you go to any "artsy, hip" neighborhood in larger cities, you will find at least one or two chain restaurants/stores. In Midtown Memphis there was a TGI Fridays. The original Schlotsky's is in downtown/UT area Austin. In Boston even the hippest areas that I saw had an Au Bon Pain on every corner. As long as Wal-Mart stays away, I'm happy to see any type of business thrive in that area. And I enjoy Starbucks and Cups equally. They offer two different things IMO. I don't hang out at Starbucks but I do at Cups. Things like that.

Author

andi

Date

2007-06-01T17:38:42-06:00

ID

92832

Comment

If a tow truck driver ever tries to charge me anything, much less $75, when he doesn't even have my car hooked up to his truck, he better be bigger than me and faster than me - that's all I'm saying whether it be in Fondren or Pelahatchie! No way I'm paying shite when I'm not the one that called him!

Author

Jo-D

Date

2007-06-03T04:16:16-06:00

ID

92833

Comment

Duling will have about 200 parking places in the back and more in the front. It is a good problem to have... more business than you have parking placesfor. LENNY'S needs to quit the towing crap and be glad to have good buisness in Fondren. Fondren will be there and get better and better and Lenny's may or may not if they run off buiness!!!!! Starbucks is comming to duling!

Author

Fondren Res

Date

2007-06-06T20:10:03-06:00

ID

92834

Comment

"Fondren will be there and get better and better and Lenny's may or may not if they run off buiness!" - Fondren Res But, if Lenny's parking lot is filled with Rooster's customers, how is that good for Lenny's? Lenny's may go out of business as a result of FoCo's people parking in their private lot. Who wants to eat at a place that has no parking? Fondren Res, do you want your neighbor's guests parking in your yard and driveway because they have parties with entirely too many people every other day? It's quite easy to sit on the sideline and say one thing but when it's happening to you or your business, you'd probably feel different about it.

Author

kaust

Date

2007-06-06T21:05:13-06:00

ID

92835

Comment

Befor the towing started, from 11 until about 1 the parking was hard to find and everyone was busy.Lenny's was busy, everyone. the security guard at FO/Co only keeps the parking lot on top full without people having to go up there and turn arround when it is full. First come first serve, weather it is fondren cost. or Lenny's or whoever. bottom line is if we all get along we will all thrive. With Duling and everything else going on we can all do well. IF WE ALL GET ALONG WITHOUT TOW TRUCKS.

Author

Fondren Res

Date

2007-06-07T20:18:46-06:00

ID

92836

Comment

Fondren, the parking at Lenny's is private parking for the tenets and customers of that lot. I don't see why you think it belongs to the community? This whole concept that Lenny's owes its parking to the surrounding businesses and to customers not doing business with them or the tenents in that building is ridiculous. If I owned a business and parking was consistently abused by non-customers, I'd tow too. It's a matter of economics. If your customer cannot park at your business, they're apt to go to another business where they can.

Author

kaust

Date

2007-06-07T21:15:22-06:00

ID

92837

Comment

I agree, Knol. When I parked in a Lenny's parking space a while back I saw the sign clearly stating that the space was reserved for Lenny's customers and I ignored it because I couldn't find anything near Rooster's and I parked there out of frustration, praying no one would notice me walking past Lenny's on my way to FC! Apparently there were enough people doing the same thing that Lenny's decided it was hurting their business and they had to do something to send a clear message to the folks who were minimizing the financial impact of parking on their property with no intent of doing business with them. As harsh as towing was, it was probably a decision made after many months of tolerating the situation in an attempt to be "good neighbors". I probably would have done the same thing so I can't say that I disagree with their decision. There have been quite a few good suggestions made in this thread to deal with the situation, maybe some Fondren businesspeople will pick up on these ideas and come up with a solution.

Author

Jeff Lucas

Date

2007-06-07T22:06:17-06:00

ID

92838

Comment

Well JUST SO YA KNOW jackmann22...There is secuirty to keep the bums from hasseling the customers and the ONLY and I stress ONLY time a secuirty guard will not let you in that parking lot is because it is FULL......It is a cramped lot and people were getting stuck trying to move around over parked cars in places that were NOT meant for parking..ANYBODY is welcome to park there and shop anywhere around FC. You aren't going to eat at the same place everyday anyway..so customers and their cars should be shared by all, It is a blessing to have a parking problem in the area..and people should be nicer to the area shoppers.

Author

kaygee

Date

2007-06-15T17:26:22-06:00

ID

92839

Comment

kaygee, what should we do with the bums? How will they survive without our change? (As a side note, I'd like to see the business owners in the Fondren Corner area work together to solve the parking issue, but don't think they will. The best solution I can come up with is a two-pronged method - 1) make all parking in the immediate area open to everyone, for quick "stop in for a minute" shopping at any store; and 2) provide security in the unused northeast corner of the stadium lot, with several more trolleys picking up and dropping off there.)

Author

hmg

Date

2007-06-16T13:07:15-06:00

ID

92840

Comment

The bums around there are pretty well taken care of..it is the customers that are not to be bothered while eating. I think Jackson does pretty good in feeding and housing the most of them. And at Fondren Corner the ONLY people who are NOT allowed to park there are the protesters across the street..and they still do...

Author

kaygee

Date

2007-06-17T12:36:13-06:00