What locals should expect during Sept 4-6 celebration

Last night, Historic City News reporters learned more about what the City of St Augustine event organizers are doing and what residents can expect during the city’s 450th anniversary, just two-months away.

The first of three planned neighborhood town hall meetings enjoyed an exceptional turnout at the Casa Monica Hotel’s Flagler Ballroom, with more than 60 people from the Downtown and Lincolnville area in attendance.

“We had the opportunity to present vital details surrounding the planned events, street closures, trolley plans and other people movement issues with our residents,” commented Julee Cooke; director, program coordinator for Celebrate 450! “Parking, resident access points, and trolley services were the key interests.”

City of St Augustine Police Chief, Loran Lueders, Project Manager for Celebrate 450!; Ryan Murphy, General Manager of the St Johns County Cultural Division; and Dana Ste. Claire, Director of the 450th Commemoration; each took a turn presenting information.

At the conclusion the floor was opened to the audience for a question and answer session; the bulk of which centered on how residents could be assured easy access to their homes, how emergency medical services would gain entry, and whether the previously used “No Event Parking” signage would be utilized as it was during the Gentlemen of the Road Tour last year.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance was another issue raised, to which Chief Lueders replied that a safe and secure area near the Bayfront Main Stage will be provided for those requiring such accommodation.

The next Town Hall meeting will be held on Tuesday, July 7th at the Visitor Information Center at 6:00 p.m. The public is welcome to attend.