The St. Augustine City Commission meeting on April 14, 2025, focused on proposed amendments to mobile vendor restrictions in response to pedestrian congestion during high-traffic events. The discussion was prompted by data presented at a previous meeting, which highlighted significant pedestrian traffic on sidewalks, particularly during events like the Fourth of July and the Nights of Lights.

City officials reviewed current regulations that prohibit mobile vendors on Saint George Street and surrounding areas year-round due to high pedestrian density. The proposed amendments aim to extend these restrictions to specific sidewalks along Avenida Menendez and Cathedral Place during peak event times. The western sidewalk of Avenida Menendez would be restricted from Orange Street to King Street, and the northern sidewalk of Cathedral Place would also be prohibited for mobile vendors during the Nights of Lights and Fourth of July celebrations.

Commissioners expressed concerns about pedestrian safety and traffic congestion, suggesting that if one side of Avenida Menendez is closed to vendors, it could lead to increased congestion on the opposite side. Some members advocated for further investigation into the conditions on the eastern sidewalk of Avenida Menendez, noting that it also experiences heavy foot traffic during events.

The commission ultimately agreed to pass the ordinance on first reading, with the understanding that additional data would be gathered to assess the need for restrictions on the eastern sidewalk as well. The discussion underscored the balance between commercial rights and public safety, with officials emphasizing the need for regulations that address specific congestion issues without overly restricting vendor operations.

In addition to the mobile vendor discussion, the meeting included a resolution authorizing the city manager to execute a grant agreement with the Florida Department of Transportation for continued funding of the Star Circulator, a public transportation service that has seen fluctuating ridership numbers. The commission's decisions reflect ongoing efforts to enhance public safety and improve the overall experience for residents and visitors in St. Augustine.