Automation at downtown Auburn parking garage nearly complete … – Auburn Citizen

AUBURNThe city's automation updates at the Lincoln Street Parking Garage are moving ahead.

Superintendent of Public Works Mike Talbot said in a presentation to the Auburn City Council Thursday that automated ticketing equipment has been installed at both the entrance and exit lanes, but the garage is still staffed with an employee in the booth until the equipment is up and running. Talbot said he expects the internet service to be installed as soon as Friday.

The automated equipment at the city parking garage's entrance has already been installed.

Additionally, the current lower level metered spots will soon utilize an automatic kiosk and 14 spots along the garage's north wall were converted to metered parking. These spots will not offer the two-hour free parking.

The DPW plans to make the garage more accessible to pedestriansby removing several panelsnear the William and Lincoln streets intersection. The city will also name the garage's four stairwells with their corresponding street namesin order to make navigating the garage easier for visitors.

After 32 years on the force, Sgt. Brian Clancy is retiring from his position with the Auburn Police Department. He was honored for his service to the city at Thursday's Auburn City Council meeting.

Auburn Police Chief Shawn Butler, Deputy Chief Roger Anthony and members of the department were present at the meeting to pay their respects to Clancy.

"You are one of the few remaining officers that will end an era within our ranks, one who leads with great knowledge and experience of a generation in the policing profession that rarely remains," Butler said on behalf of himself and Anthony.

Butler called Clancy a mentor to himself and Anthony and remembered a phrase Clancy is famous around the department for: "You got a badge, you got a gun. Figure it out."

"Many times we did," Butler continued. "But other times we knew we could count on your guidance when we could not find the answer."

Mayor Michael Quill said he and City Manager Jeff Dygert would like to bring back the tradition of honoring all retiring city employees and thanking them for their service.

"We make a big deal when we bring a new person on board, usually a swearing in," Quill said. "At the same time, we need to do something for our retiring employees who have done so much for the city."

Staff writer Natalie Brophy can be reached at (315)282-2239 or natalie.brophy@lee.net. Follow her on Twitter @brophy_natalie.

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Automation at downtown Auburn parking garage nearly complete ... - Auburn Citizen