Lot #7 goes private, will tow cars

A metal sign went up about one hour ago designating the former Chestnut Hill Parking Foundation Lot #7 as private parking (see photo) with a warning that all other cars will be towed. Lot #7 is located behind shops on the west side of the 8400 block of Germantown Avenue, from Gravers Lane to Highland Avenue. The lot has 73 spaces.

I reported on the parking foundation's loss of this lot in the April 22 Local. Acadia Realty Trust declined to renew its lease with the parking foundation late last year, and the lot reverted to Acadia's control on Monday April 19. All the parking foundation's lots are operated on a lease basis from the individual property owners who lease their land for a minimal fee, for as little as $1 a year in some cases. The property is part of a parcel that includes the retail strip on that block containing Talbots and Jos. Banks clothing stores.

Acadia has reportedly been fairly vigilant in towing cars from the small lot of the former Borders Books property, which it also owns. Acadia did not return calls for comment on its plans for the lot.