SCRANTON -- A business that's been in Scranton for more than half a century is protesting a proposed city ordinance that would ban parking outside the business.
After close to 60 years in business, Brunetti's is a habit for many in Scranton's Green Ridge section.
How customers pick up their pizza or hoagie at Sanderson and Deacon is a habit, too.
"Most of the cars park right in the front here on Sanderson, I guess that is, and right here along Deacon Street."
But a proposed city ordinance would ban parking on Brunetti's corner. The owners say it would cripple the Green Ridge mainstay.
"It is the same family, three generations," said Therese Brunetti. "It says a lot."
City officials say Deacon Street only became a two-way street a few years ago. It was mistakenly marked as a one way and remained that way for at least 20 years.
Since the double yellow line was added, crashes have increased. A city-sanctioned study showed that banning parking on the side of the street would improve visibility.
Brunetti's came to council with a counter-proposal: make Deacon a one-way again.
"We're here 11 and a half hours, six days a week," said Brunetti. "I have seen it all. My husband has seen it all. My mother-in-law has seen it all. It's not what's on paper. My second suggestion to the council would be a three-way stop sign."
Brunetti says street parking is popular for customers who get food to go, like Jackie Rosencrans who visits every morning.
"Brunetti's is right here," said Rosencrans. "I like to park right here, or right there, or in the back if you can get in there."
Brunetti's does have a parking lot out back, but the owners say, often, this isn't enough during lunchtime and when a nearby school is letting out.
"During the week days, you know what I mean? When everybody has school, you know what I mean? And then you have to watch the crossing guards, like, if they're on the other corners."
For now, the parking ordinance is on hold.
Scranton's mayor and council say they're willing to compromise. They will meet with Brunetti's and the city's engineer next week.
