I would like to discuss the potential installation, implementation, and utilization of cameras to issue warnings to motorists that “block the box” in violation of State law, particularly on the cross-streets along 41st Street, thereby creating dangerous situations and exacerbating traffic congestion in the City.
Florida Statute 316.2061 prohibits any driver from entering an intersection or a marked crosswalk unless there is sufficient space on the other side of the intersection or crosswalk to accommodate the vehicle the driver is operating without obstructing the passage of other vehicles or pedestrians, notwithstanding any traffic control signal indication to proceed. By violating Fla. Stat. 316.2061, drivers not only create substantial additional traffic congestion and increase drive times around the City, but also endanger pedestrians who often must perilously cross busy streets by weaving in between vehicles illegally obstructing pedestrian crosswalks and roadways.
Accordingly, I would request that the City Administration, upon consideration of all relevant factors (including, but not limited to safety, cost, and effectiveness), provide the Mayor and City Commission with its recommendation and position regarding the potential implementation of a Pilot Program to utilize camera technology in order to issue warnings to motorists “blocking the box” in violation of State law (in particular on the cross-streets along 41st Street), along with any specific issues or concerns relating to this initiative, so that my colleagues and I may discuss and take any appropriate action.