Port Washington license plate reader program to launch in May

A license plate reader program that can identify unregistered parked cars is expected to launch in Port Washington in May.

North Hempstead town officials expect to hire a company to provide the camera software after a bidding process in time for a May start, Acting Public Safety Commissioner Shawn Brown said.

The town, in an effort to encourage carpooling at the commuter lots, has proposed a three-car limit for households in the Port Washington Parking District. Currently, a resident can register an unlimited number of cars for $15 each. Under proposed legislation to be heard at an April 19 public hearing, Brown said, residents of a household would be able to register $25 for the first car, $45 for the second car, and $150 for third car.

There is a $240 annual fee to park in the district, which has more than 1,000 spaces.