Infrastructure Hot Topics: Right-of-way Parking, Sidewalks & Speed bumps

Infrastructure often defines how people experience our neighborhood. Sidewalks, roads, parking, and drainage are critical components of our work. We advocate for projects that will improve the Historic District, and we keep tabs on the work being done. Here’s a quick “infrastructure at a glance” list of commonly asked questions. 

Parking in the Right-of-Way – let’s clarify the rules…

By Kellen Lindsey, Transportation & Infrastructure Committee 

Residents throughout the district often express concerns over the neighborhood’s parking requirements, with some questions regarding what is and is not permitted within the right-of-way (i.e. between the roadway and the sidewalk). To provide clarification on the matter, the Parking Requirements of the City of Jacksonville’s Code of Ordinances, Section 656.399.25(d)(2) state:

(b) Parking in front yards is prohibited, unless in a designated driveway;

(c) Parking is prohibited between the street edge and the sidewalk, or if no sidewalk exists, between the street edge and the property line.

Based on these requirements, the City does not allow any parking in front yards or in the green spaces between the pavement edge and sidewalk (or property line). After seeking further guidance from the City, we understand that parking in front yards is considered a violation of Municipal Code Compliance which may result in a Code Enforcement Citation. Parking between the street and sidewalk (or property line) is prohibited by the Office of Public Parking and may result in a Parking Citation issued by Parking Enforcement (or JSO on weekends and after hours). The citations can include penalties/fines, wheel locks (boots), or the vehicle being towed.

Following these rules allows for improved walkability and ADA accessibility from not blocking the sidewalk, protection of property values, and preserving the nature and aesthetic of the Historic community.

While we recognize there are certain areas where these requirements may be challenging, we encourage all residents to follow the City’s parking requirements, take advantage of all available driveway and street parking, and communicate with neighbors and/or tenants to resolve any ongoing issues.

If parking issues persist and you would like to request service or report a problem, we recommend using the City’s online customer service portal, MyJax, at https://myjax.custhelp.com/ to submit your concern or by contacting either Municipal Code Compliance or the Office of Public Parking at (904) 630-CITY (2489).

 

Sidewalks are being replaced. But how?

By Andrew Billelo, Transportation & Infrastructure Committee

Tired of uneven or cracked sidewalks? Wishing the sidewalk on your block went all the way to the intersection or curb? Now is the time to assist RAP in its ongoing efforts of identifying and reporting damaged, disconnected, or missing sidewalks in our neighborhood. 

In the Fall of 2019, the RAP Transportation & Infrastructure Committee identified and submitted a list of over twenty blocks and intersections needing sidewalk improvements to the City of Jacksonville. Many of these locations were then added to the City’s 2020 sidewalk maintenance plan and have since been addressed or are ongoing.

We ask that all neighbors stay on the lookout for sidewalks that need repair and submit your findings to 630-CITY, or as a “General Streets & Sidewalks” request online at https://myjax.custhelp.com/. Pictures are encouraged if submitting online. Describe the location or report the nearest address when filling out the form.

Many residents have expressed frustration with the current sidewalk replacement due to inconsistencies in the replaced sidewalk. The stated City policy is that sidewalks are replaced, not changed. Current hexagon segments are replaced with new hexagon pavers. Sidewalks with “stamped” hexagons are seeing the same replacement. And flat cement sidewalks are seeing flat replacements. RAP advocated for new hexagon pavers throughout the entire district with the “stamped” sections only when necessary. While we did not succeed in this effort, new sidewalks in the district are usually a very welcome improvement all around. Thanks COJ! 

 

 

Speed limits and speed bumps

By Robert Turnage, Transportation & Infrastructure Committee

Speed bumps can be a very effective way to slow traffic on “cut-through” streets in the neighborhood, often where families and young children play. While speed bumps are effective, they require 75% of residents in the area to sign a petition showing support for a speed bump. 

In addition, while the city will kick in half the cost, the price tag is around $25,000. To begin the process, reach out to Councilwoman Randy DeFoor for the official paperwork and petition forms. 

Do you have more infrastructure topics you want covered? Email info@riversideavondale.org with questions or comments.