PEABODY – In a recent Peabody Commission on Disability meeting, it was announced that handicap parking fines have been increased to $300, and the funds will be transferred to the commission.

According to the City of Peabody website, a Jan. 31, 2024 version of the Code of Ordinances says that a violation of disabled parking rules will result in a fine of not less than $100.00 and not more than $300.00. And according to the Salem News, in 2017, the handicap parking fines rose from $150 to $200. 

At the meeting, Commission Member Kayla Bentas also reported that efforts to create a Sensory Braille Trail along the Bonfanti Nature Trail are underway. 

“We have 10 posts that we’re putting on the Bonfanti Nature Trail by the Meadow Golf Course,” Bentas said. “So five on each side, so it’s gonna be fun.”

Talks regarding the project began years ago before COVID-19 hit, then it stalled. Bentas said that an application to one of Lowe’s Hometown Grants was sent to help fund the project, but that they were unsuccessful in getting the grant. They still ended up receiving some money from Lowe’s, and now, plans are all set out and they are trying to get people to join the Sensory Braille Trail Committee.

“Since we already have all the plans set out, we’re partnering with the city of Peabody,” Bentas said. “…whoever wants to be on the committee so that we can start having meetings to figure out next steps between funding and actual implementation. So it sounds like we’re getting closer…it’s gonna be a lot of fun….a lot of work.”

Bentas said that Committee meetings to talk about implementing the project will start in the spring or summer.