Special Parking Privileges In Temecula May Be Extended To Purple Heart Recipients

Veterans wounded in combat who received a Purple Heart could get preferential parking spaces in City of Temecula-owned parking areas.

During the regularly scheduled Temecula City Council meeting Tuesday night, council members will consider whether to install proposed signage in public parking lots designating 30 select spaces for Purple Heart recipients.

California Vehicle Code 5101.8 allows Purple Heart recipients to apply for special license plates inscribed with the special military insignia. When an applicant for the Purple Heart license plate qualifies as a disabled veteran, he or she can also apply for a placard that allows for special parking privileges, according to the state vehicle code.

The City of Temecula proposal states the Purple Heart spaces would be signed at a cost of $180 per sign, or approximately $5,400 for all 30 spots. The outlay does not include installation costs, according to city documents.

Retired U.S. Marine Cpl. Juan Dominguez of Temecula brought forth the idea of special spaces to Councilman Chuck Washington, according to city documents.

The proposed Purple Heart parking program would not impact existing marked disabled parking stalls, according to the city documents.

The documents also state the program could be extended to private property owners at a cost.

Temecula currently has a Military Banner Program in place to honor active duty and retired service members who live in the city or who have family members residing in the city.

The 7 p.m. March 12 Temecula City Council meeting will take place at the Civic Center, 41000 Main Street. Click here for more information and the full meeting agenda.