PINE BUSH, MAMAKATING – D’Oro Steakhouse is just one of many spots locals can grab a bite, but recent parking concerns spurred further discussion among Mamakating residents regarding overflow vehicles along nearby residential roads.

During public comment at Tuesday night’s board meeting, several residents brought up such concerns, including Millhouse Road resident Melanie Conklin. She voiced concern over an ongoing issue with patrons and employees utilizing the narrow residential street for parking.

“Our street was never designed to handle parked cars,” Conklin stressed, citing the lack of shoulders and narrowness of the street. “When vehicles park along the road, it effectively turns our street into a one-lane passage.”

Residents said the situation can create hazards for drivers when entering and exiting the roadway, particularly as it connects to a busier main road. Concerns were also raised regarding reduced visibility at night and during inclement weather.

Similar concerns extended to emergency response, as residents noted that access for fire or ambulance services could be impacted if the roadway becomes congested.

Conklin also expressed concerns regarding children who walk or bike along the road, in addition to complications for everyday activities like receiving deliveries or navigating larger vehicles.

“It’s not just an inconvenience. This is a hazard,” Conklin said, adding that the situation has affected residents’ ability to safely use the roadway.

Another resident, citing an experience with her 11-year-old son, described concerns near a school bus stop, stating that upon seeing unfamiliar vehicles and individuals, he became frightened and ran home “scared to death.”

Town Supervisor Peter Goodman acknowledged the issue and indicated the board is working toward a solution. He stated that the town recently contacted the restaurant’s ownership to discuss the situation and potential improvements to parking management.

“I did call the owners of the steakhouse and told them that it needs to be addressed,” Goodman said, noting possible solutions such as more consistent valet use and better utilization of on-site space.

Goodman also stated that although some enforcement tools are available, like seasonal no-parking restrictions, there may be limitations on implementing year-round measures. He indicated the town intends to allow time for the restaurant to follow through on proposed improvements before taking further steps, noting that recent winter conditions have limited certain efforts.

Present at the meeting, Chef Edison Narkaj of D’Oro Steakhouse spoke on behalf of the restaurant, acknowledging the concerns and stating that the business is working on solutions.

“We are aware of the issue and we are doing everything to fix it,” Narkaj said.

He cited heavy snowfall and ground conditions as challenges that affected parking expansion efforts during the winter months. However, he added that additional space is being developed behind the restaurant and that there are plans to expand parking capacity moving forward, which could help alleviate overflow into nearby areas.

He added that while the restaurant has provided guidance to patrons, some parking behavior remains outside of its direct control.

Thanking Narkaj for speaking, Goodman reiterated that the town will continue monitoring the situation while encouraging continued progress.

“We hear your complaints,” Goodman said. “If it continues, we’ll keep looking into further enforcement.”