Better Ask Barry: Driveway Blockers

You would think with all the red paint and no parking signs that drivers would get the idea you can’t park in front of this driveway, but the homeowner says that message isn’t sinking in.

Brian Gram lives across the street from El Sausal Middle School in Salinas and has a beef with drivers who block his driveway.

“It’s not just the school during the day,” said Gram. “It’s also city events, city leagues, volleyball, basketball — all sorts of things that happen until 10 o’clock at night.”

Gram is annoyed with just about everyone.

“I’ve contacted police, I’ve contacted parking enforcement, I’ve contacted public works. I’ve contacted the school multiple times. I’ve talked with some people over the phone, who say they’re administrators, but nothing has been done.”

Some wonder if all the dramatics – the paint, signs and social media campaign – is doing more harm than good.

In a statement, the Salinas Union High School District said it’s “open to hearing all concerns over student safety. We invite residents to share their concerns directly, during pubic board meetings or in direct conversation with district officials.”

While Gram’s guerrilla campaign is getting attention, his city council member wishes he’d contacted her directly.

“I think you need to contact us first at the city. That’s what we’re here for, to hear the complaints, and how do we find a solution to his complaints,” she said.

Gloria De La Rosa points to the “Salinas Connect” app as an effective way to communicate your concerns. Mayor Joe Gunter agrees.

“We’ve had over 20,000 items called in and entered by residents, councilmembers, business leaders, and it’s starting to have a good effect,” Gunter said.

KION has passed Brian’s contact information on to Councilmember De La Rosa, and she said she’ll be getting in touch.

If you have a question about how things work – or don’t work – reach out and we’ll try to get you answer.

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