ATLANTIC BEACH, Fla. – Many residents of Atlantic Beach are frustrated over a proposal to open Seminole Road creating a second entrance into Hanna Park. Dozens packed an Atlantic Beach City Commission meeting Monday night to tell members and the mayor they don't want the extra traffic.
"As it is right now, I can deal with it. Adding more traffic to the road is certainly going to be a major problem. I don't see how it could be safe and allow more traffic on that road with as much as we already have today," said Roger Menezes, resident.
Some people who spoke with News4Jax understood it may be good for the park, but worry about safety and the impact on their property values.
"People have spent a lot of money buying homes in Atlantic Beach. Certainly we don't want to lose money giving access, but everybody would like to enjoy access to the park. We don't know what to do here," said Menezes.
News4Jax couldn't find anyone who attended the meeting in support of the proposal to open Seminole Road. They fear if it happens, they'll lose the quaint feel of the close-knit community.
"It's a beach village, it's a very unique spot. Those of us who are lucky enough to live here love it," said Rick Hathaway, resident.
Monday's meeting was just a discussion. The proposal will be up for a vote at the next commission meeting on Jan. 26th.