Reminder: 2011 Train Station Permit Forms Must be Turned in Today

Today, Wednesday, Dec. 8 is the last day to turn in 2011 Bethel Train Station Permits to the . 

"There are no exceptions to that date," Bergh said. "We have to be extremely firm because so many people want to park [at the train station]."

If holders do not return the forms today, they automatically forfeit their 2011 permit and it will go to someone on the waiting list. 

There are approximately 162 permit spaces at the train station on Durant Avenue. Every year the Town Clerk's Office issues 276 permits and typically anywhere from 100-150 people are on the waiting list. This year there are only 89 people waiting for permits so far.

Bergh said the high demand for permits came after gas prices skyrocketed a few years ago. In pervious years, her office would open as early as 5 a.m. to issue permits to people on a "first come, first serve basis" that would create lines out the door. 

The Bethel Train Station is a stop on Metro-North Railroad on the Danbury Line that can reach Norwalk and New York City. Besides the 162 parking spaces, there are also 26 metered spaces that cost 25 cents per hour. Weekends from midnight Friday until 12 a.m. Monday, as well as holidays, offer free parking.

If you would like to be placed on the waiting list for 2011 permits, call the Town Clerk's Office at 203-794-8505 or send an e-mail to jelinskie@betheltownhall.org with "Train Station Waiting List" in the subject line. Include your name, address and a daytime phone number.       

If you are unable to receive a parking pass, Bergh said her office suggests looking into obtaining a parking pass at either the Danbury or Redding train stations.