City Council discusses traffic plans and residential parking changes for Knights of Lights

During the St. Augustine City Commission meeting on July 14, 2025, city officials discussed significant changes to the popular Knights of Lights event, focusing on traffic management, parking strategies, and public safety improvements. With the event drawing large crowds, the commission emphasized the need for effective solutions to enhance the experience for both residents and visitors.

The meeting began with an overview of the public engagement process, which included five meetings attended by 84 participants, gathering feedback from residents and businesses. Key concerns raised included traffic congestion, the need for more shuttle services, and the desire for increased bike parking. The commission highlighted the importance of balancing the needs of different community groups while addressing the challenges posed by the influx of visitors during the holiday season.

One of the primary strategies discussed was extending shuttle service hours, particularly during the busy week between Christmas and New Year’s. The commission proposed increasing parking fees at the historic downtown parking facility to encourage the use of shuttles. The idea is to implement a reservation system or raise entry fees during peak times, which would help manage demand and reduce congestion.

Additionally, the commission considered converting certain public parking lots into workforce permit parking to support local businesses and their employees. This change aims to alleviate parking shortages for workers who often struggle to find available spaces during busy periods.

To further protect residential neighborhoods from overflow parking and cut-through traffic, the commission proposed establishing temporary resident-only parking zones during the Knights of Lights event. This initiative, supported by a petition from local residents, aims to minimize the impact of event traffic on surrounding communities.

Public safety was also a key focus, with plans to implement traffic circulation changes, including closing specific streets to vehicular traffic during peak times. These measures are intended to enhance pedestrian safety and improve traffic flow in the downtown area.

The commission is seeking community input on these proposed changes, particularly regarding the implementation of increased parking fines for illegal parking, which could rise from $35 to $100. This adjustment aims to deter illegal parking behaviors that contribute to congestion and safety issues.

In conclusion, the discussions at the meeting reflect the city’s commitment to improving the Knights of Lights experience while addressing the concerns of residents and businesses. The commission plans to move forward with these proposals, incorporating community feedback and monitoring their effectiveness during the upcoming holiday season.