Augusta, Maine Police Department Warns of Hefty Fine For Waiting in Line @ Popular Car Wash

When it comes to winter in Maine, some businesses see a decline in business and others begin to see a major influx.

For example, things at the pontoon rental place on Sebago Lake tend to quiet down just a tad while lines for the ever-popular Washville Car Wash tend to explode. Between Maine and Long Island, they have nearly 30 different locations and they work hard to keep our vehicles clean from the nasty conditions of winter in the Northeast.

However, the Augusta, Maine location has been the home of some frustrations of area commuters as folks find that getting by on Western Avenue, including those trying to get into the animal hospital on Pet Haven Lane have faced some troubles.

Now, the Augusta Police Department has gotten involved. It used to be a normal Monday to see people waiting for the car wash in the right-turn only lane on Western Avenue that turns onto Pet Haven Lane.

However, the PD has since posted a sign and Facebook message warning drivers that waiting in line for the wash in the turn lane will now (potentially) lead to a fine of $121.00. So what's the solution?

They have advised people to drive by if the line is long and loop back around to try again. But is that really feasible? One might have to do 16 laps around the city before they can sneak into line.

Additionally, people pay a lot of money, myself included, for multiple monthly subscription passes. It's no fault of Washville as this car wash was built here before they owned it, and it certainly isn't the fault of the Augusta Police Department as they're simply enforcing existing traffic law.

So, what, if anything, is the solution?

The Augusta, Maine Police Department said in part,

We have been experiencing extra congestion near the intersection of Western Ave and Pet Haven Lane. We understand wanting to get your car wash (we do too).

However! The right turn lane is for emergency stopping only! If you stop or park in the right-turn lane, you violate Maine State Law - Title 29-A. Section 2057, also known as Failing to Obey Traffic Control Device. If you violate this law, there is a $121.00 fine.