Ludington issues no parking order for two areas.

 By Rob Alway, Editor-in-Chief.

LUDINGTON — There will be a little less parking in the city after City Council approved two traffic control orders Monday during its regular meeting.

The two parking spaces on the east side of Ferry Street south of Loomis Street will now be reserved for emergency responders who operate the city’s fire and police boat, Marine 1. The spots are located south of two handicap parking spots.

Police Chief Mark Barnett explained to Mayor Ryan Cox and the council that the volunteers often have to block several blocks away, causing a delay in emergency response.

Barnett said he considered reserving parking spots on the south side of Loomis Street near the intersection of Ferry Street — which would be closer to the boat — but considered the Ferry Street locations a little safer. He said either way, two parking spots would be used.

The council also approved a no parking order for the east side of Lewis Street between Ludington Avenue and Court Street, the area located in front of the Kiwanis Band Shell in City Park. Barnett said those parking spaces hinder on events at the band shell, especially for people with limited mobility who sit in their cars on the west side of the street. He added that the area also contains a curb cut-away that allows for handicap entrance from the street. This area is often blocked by vehicles.

The Lewis Street traffic order is for 90 days.