NEW SMYRNA BEACH, Fla. – For several months now an engineering firm has been evaluating the parking in New Smyrna Beach and on Tuesday night, the city commission is hearing its suggestion on how to fix a growing problem.
News 6 received a copy of the final report that found that between the two downtown areas of Canal Street and Flagler Avenue, the city is lacking nearly 1,000 parking spots for the crowds now showing up.
Those who work on Flagler Avenue said it can be hard to find parking even for business owners and staff.
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“If you get here a little bit later, it’s full. People are walking to the beach from their cars further down there,” said Tracy Baxter.
Last year, the city started a Parking Task Force and hired the engineering firm, LTG, to do an extensive parking study and find solutions. The firm recently wrapped up its study.
In its report, the engineers even wrote one team member found driving on Flagler Avenue “stressful and anxiety-producing.”
During peak periods, the engineers found Flagler Avenue has a deficit of 556 spaces and Canal Street a deficit of 396 spaces. The firm gave the city 22 action items to fix the parking.
“At a future date, the commission will take that report, look at the 22 recommendations made by LTG and then make determinations and give staff direction with how to move forward with implementation,” said Assistant City Manager Ron Neibert.
Among the firm’s suggested solutions are meter and paid parking, creating a shuttle service during special events, new, clear signage and changing the drawbridge timing on the North Causeway.
Residents and those working in these areas hope the parking would stay free for them.
“It would just make it more difficult because of course we don’t make a whole lot of cash per hour, and it’s for the pleasure of the job and socializing. We do it for fun,” said Patty Anderson.
Neibert told News 6 he believes the city commission will make decisions and get the work going on many of the action items within the next 30 to 60 days.
To read the full report, click here.
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