Taxi Stands Up for Approval in Hightstown

Three locations in town may soon be designated as taxi stands, if the council approves an ordinance after a public hearing.

Two spaces in the municipal parking lot at Railroad and Rogers avenues, two parking spaces at Broad and Franklin streets, and two spaces near the south side of Railroad Avenue on Stockton Street have been recommended by Police Director James Le Tellier as locations for the taxi stands. 

Le Tellier said he recommended the spaces near Roger Avenue and Broad Street because they are near bus stops and within walking distance from the downtown and historic districts, and the other stop is in the downtown, but will not impact parking for local businesses.

“This [permanent taxi stands] also gives us an opportunity to get rid of cabs in other parking lots because they are not in designated stands,” Le Tellier said.

Le Tellier said he met with many local business owners as well as cab company owners about the stands before choosing locations.

“We are trying to provide a service to the community, and letting people know this is a safe cab to get into,” Le Tellier said.

Only cabs licensed in Hightstown may use the taxi stands, and two cars from the same company will not be able to use both spots at one stand, if the ordinance is approved.

All taxi stands in the ordinance are on Borough property, and any private property owner who wishes to have a designated taxi stand must provide written consent with the Borough clerk and the police department, according to the ordinance. 

The first reading of this ordinance, , was approved with a 5-0 vote (Robert Thibault abstained) on Monday and the final reading and public hearing will be held Aug. 6.

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