In an effort to alleviate downtown Fort Lauderdale’s notorious traffic congestion, city officials have proposed converting Andrews Avenue and NE/SE 3rd Avenue into one-way streets. The plan aims to streamline traffic flow by reducing the number of signal phases, creating dedicated transit-only lanes, and adding space for pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure. However, this proposal has been met with significant public opposition. Source: fortlauderdale.gov
The Proposal
The “One-Way Pairs” concept involves transforming Andrews Avenue and 3rd Avenue into one-way streets, extending from Sunrise Boulevard to SE 17th Street. This initiative seeks to enhance traffic efficiency by minimizing signal phases and incorporating dedicated lanes for buses, cyclists, and pedestrians. The idea has been under discussion for several decades, with the current study being the latest effort to assess its feasibility.
Public Reaction
At a recent public meeting held at ArtServe on Sunrise Boulevard, the proposal faced unanimous disapproval from attendees. When traffic engineers solicited support for the plan, not a single hand was raised. Former vice chairman Doug Eagon expressed strong opposition, stating, “It would be absolutely ruinous.”
Commissioner Steve Glassman echoed these sentiments, noting, “I have had nothing but negative feedback.”
Concerns Raised
Critics of the proposal have raised several concerns:
- Business Impact: There is apprehension that altering traffic patterns could disrupt local businesses by reducing accessibility and visibility.
- Increased Speeds: Opponents fear that one-way streets may lead to higher vehicle speeds, potentially compromising pedestrian safety.
- Navigation Challenges: Residents and visitors unfamiliar with the new traffic flow might find navigation more complicated, leading to confusion and potential accidents.
City’s Response
City officials acknowledge the concerns and emphasize that the proposal is still under study. They plan to conduct comprehensive assessments and gather further public input before making any final decisions. The study includes analyzing various scenarios, such as different directional flows for the one-way pairs and maintaining existing conditions. fo
