Residents complain about South Nassau Communities Hospital parking

Limited parking in the lots around South Nassau Communities Hospital has caused nearby residents to complain of a lack of space to drive and park on the surrounding streets.

Piera Reeves, a longtime homeowner in the area, began noticing the congestion around the hospital last fall and winter. “You couldn’t even put the snow anywhere, because there were cars parked all over the neighborhood,” Reeves said. You can’t see past the cars at intersections to see oncoming traffic. You can’t even get into your driveway.”

According to Reeves, she can tell that the majority of the cars belong to hospital employees because of the hangtags in the windshield and the scrubs most drivers are wearing.

The hospital has acknowledged the problem and is working toward alleviating it, said Damian Becker, manager of media relations for SNCH. The hospital has purchased lots in the area that they hope to use for parking, once they receive the proper permission for each location from the Town of Hempstead.

“We’re in the process; those lots are not just sitting there because we don’t have plans,” Becker said. “It’s all part of the greater plan to add more parking space.”

Becker said the hospital administration has made progress in this regard for one of the lots they own.

“We have been fully permitted and zoned for the lot on Merrick Road, which I believe used to be a gas station,” Becker said. “We have issued bids, and once we find a contractor we can begin building right away. We’re moving as aggressively as possible to alleviate the situation.”

Becker added that one of the obstacles to turning the dirt lots into parking lots has been a faction of neighbors who are against the plan.

“We have ongoing dialogue with them and hope to come to an agreement that is satisfying to them and also helps the hospital address its long term, and even short term, needs for parking,” Becker said. “It’s something we are doing diligently so that we can be the best possible neighbors.”

South Nassau Communities Hospital has also been in discussions with the Village of Rockville Centre about the possibility of renting parking spaces. The hospital had rented space in the village’s Parking Field 12, on Sunrise Highway, as a trial a few years ago.

“There is a plan in process, and it appears close to being finished,” said Jeff Kluewer, spokesman for the village. “But I can’t tell you yet what it’s going to be in final form. It will likely be on agenda for the Nov. 7 board meeting.”