Residents of St. Augustine are invited to learn about and discuss new infrastructure technology at a public open house next Thursday, as the city prepares to roll out a series of high-tech projects aimed at addressing traffic, parking, and safety issues. The open house, set for September 26 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at The Alcazar Room of City Hall, will showcase project exhibits and provide an opportunity for public engagement with city and project staff, as announced by the City of St. Augustine.
During this event, which comes as a critical point in the city's move toward smart infrastructure, there will be a looping presentation detailing the projected improvements and interactive exhibits for stakeholders to explore; the city has made it clear through avenues such as the City’s webpage that technological enhancements will be both above and below ground, and could include solutions to the perennial issue of street flooding as well as, create transportation avenues for underserved communities to access essential services such as education, healthcare, and jobs.
Key goals for the SMART St. Augustine project as illustrated in the larger area’s SMART Region Master Plan and the SMART St. Augustine Master Plan include measures to improve traffic congestion, pedestrian safety, street lighting, and commercial parking facilities. Acknowledging the city's proactive stance, the project has progressed through the Project Development and Environment Study process with plans to integrate Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) across the urban landscape.
Financially supported by both non-federal contributions and the federal 'Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity' (RAISE) Grant—a highly competitive funding opportunity out of which St. Augustine's project was selected—one of 148 chosen in 2022, the estimated cost for these infrastructural enhancements stands at approximately $15.3 million; this speaks to the city's commitment to sustainable development and the prioritization of equitable access to urban utility.
The community is actively engaged in this transformative phase, with public comments not only welcomed but encouraged. Comments received or postmarked by October 10 will be included in the official public record, as noted on the City of St. Augustine's announcement. Anyone wishing to express their views or seek further information can email [email protected]. For media inquires, direct contact can be made with Melissa Wissel, Communications Director, at 904.293.3307 or [email protected].
