Oregon Hill residents still frustrated by Amphitheater parking woes despite signage

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Large crowds and limited parking near the Allianz Amphitheater are causing mounting frustration among residents of Richmond’s Oregon Hill neighborhood.

Last month, the city installed new signs throughout the area that read “No Parking During Events… Except for Residents” to deter concertgoers from occupying residential spaces. Despite the effort, many neighbors say the signs are doing little to address the ongoing problem.

“Parking is still a headache,” said longtime Oregon Hill resident Mr. Coleman. “I love my neighborhood. I just wish things could change, but I don't see that happening anytime soon.”

Coleman, who has lived in the area for 20 years, said the increased traffic and noise from concerts have made it difficult for residents to find parking, especially during peak evening hours.

“If you're working and you get home at 5 or 6, you can’t find a parking space,” Coleman said.

City Councilmember Stephanie Lynch collaborated with residents and concert promoter Live Nation to have the signs installed. However, she confirmed the signs are not legally enforceable.

“Some of them, they look at the sign and move on,” Coleman said. “But others, they just ignore it and park.”

When asked if permit-only parking -- like what's used in Richmond's Fan District -- could be a solution, Lynch emphasized the need for strong community support before making such a change.

“That has to be voted on and led by the community,” Lynch said. “I would never pass an ordinance enforcing a neighborhood or a community to make that great of a change without a lot of diligence and community input first.”

Coleman believes a parking deck for concert attendees could be a viable long-term solution.

“Put themselves in our shoes. If they were living here, how would they feel?” he said.

Lynch said she remains committed to working with residents to find ways to reduce noise and crowding in Oregon Hill as the popularity of the amphitheater continues to grow.