Metro-North train stations throughout southwestern Connecticut have dozens of reserved parking spaces left empty every day. Now a local commuter?s group says it knows how to fill those spaces.

There is a lengthy three- to five-year waiting list in many towns to receive a parking permit, but according to the Connecticut Rail Commuter Council, as many as one in five of those spots go unused because routine commuters are out of work.

CRCC Chairman Jim Cameron is lobbying for local municipalities to allow permit holders to lend, lease or give away their parking spot for the duration of the permit period without giving up their claim on the space.