STRONGSVILLE – Ohio Revised Code is clear when it comes to handicapped parking spaces.

Section 4511.69, section E states “The locations shall be designated through the posting of an elevated sign, whether permanently fixed or movable, imprinted with the international symbol of access and shall be reasonably close to exits, entrances, elevators and ramps.”

The city of Strongsville has not been in compliance with the ORC for years at one of the most-traveled areas in the city for individuals with handicapped placards – the Ehrnfelt Senior Center lot.

That is beginning to change, however. Pavement has been cored and vertical handicapped parking signs are beginning to go up in front of spaces at the senior center. Signs were previously in place in front of curb spaces.

Police were not able to ticket violators who parked in spaces without the vertical signs due to noncompliance with the ORC. That has also changed due to the signs that are now in place.

The ORC goes on to state, “All elevated signs shall be mounted on a fixed or movable post, and the distance from the ground to the bottom edge of the sign shall measure not less than five feet.”

Signs must also affix on the surface of the sign or next to the sign a notice that states the applicable fine for the offense of parking a motor vehicle in the special designated parking location if the motor vehicle is not entitled to be parked in that location.

There are also four parking spaces on the recreation center side of the facility where vertical signs will be erected, according to Service Director Joe Walker.