Community Leaders Advocate for Sidewalks on Eighteenth Avenue to Protect Schoolchildren

The City of Deerfield Beach held a budget workshop on July 10, 2025, where community members voiced their concerns and suggestions regarding local infrastructure and city programs.

During the meeting, Greg Murray, a resident and president of a local recreation facility, advocated for the installation of a sidewalk along Eighteenth Avenue. He emphasized the importance of safety for children who use the busy street to access school buses. Murray highlighted that the area experiences heavy traffic as drivers often cut through to save time, making it crucial to prioritize pedestrian safety.

Another resident, Joe Cummings, expressed surprise at the number of programs offered by the city and the associated costs, which he described as subsidies. Cummings, who lives in the western part of Deerfield Beach, noted that he had never attended city events due to issues like parking and crowding. He contrasted these events with a popular medieval festival in the area that does not require city funding, suggesting that Deerfield Beach lacks a distinct identity.

The discussions at the workshop reflect ongoing community engagement in local governance, with residents actively seeking improvements in safety and city services. The feedback gathered during this meeting will likely inform future budget decisions and city planning initiatives.