Why is curb painted red in Modesto neighborhood? Is that legal? Bee Curious answers
Parking in neighborhoods can be tricky, especially if residents have more cars than can fit in their driveway.
It gets particularly difficult when parking restrictions are added to the mix.
Modesto Bee reader Nancy Haskett reached out to Bee Curious, a community-driven series where reporters answer questions about Modesto, to ask about red painted curbs in city neighborhoods.
If a curb is painted red, it means nobody can stop or park there at any time, according to the Modesto Code of Ordinances.
“I have noticed on Veneman Avenue, near Marsala (Way), someone has painted some of the curbs red,” Haskett said. “I have never seen red curbs in a neighborhood and wondered if this is really allowed?”
The Modesto Bee reached out to the city to find the answer.
Why is curb in Modesto neighborhood painted red?
Only the director of Modesto’s Public Works Department can authorize the painting of curbs in the city, according to Modesto municipal code.
Curb painting is otherwise not allowed unless permitted by the city, according to the code.
“The curb (on Veneman Way) is public property,” said Diana Ruiz-Del Re, a spokeswoman for the city of Modesto. “Therefore, it is maintained by the city of Modesto.”
The curb Haskett referred to was painted red by the city to improve sight visibility for drivers trying to turn onto Veneman Avenue from Marsala Way, Ruiz-Del Re said.
“This allows the person at the stop sign to see both directions clearly free of any parked vehicles,” she said. “Curbs are painted red for safety.”
How to report suspicious activity in Modesto
Modesto residents are encouraged to report anything that seems suspicious, such as a red curb that wasn’t painted by the city, Ruiz-Del Re said.
To make a report, use the GoModesto! app, and include photos.
The city will address reports on a case-by-case basis, Ruiz-Del Re said.
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