Traffic Symposium Recap
On October 17, the Neighborhood Traffic & Safety Symposium brought together community members, city officials, and transportation experts to discuss key projects to improve traffic conditions and safety in Brickell. The event provided a platform for open dialogue and community input on issues impacting our neighborhood. This event was proudly sponsored by Microhub and American Construction & Engineering Co.
Commissioner Higgins’ Presentation on Ongoing Projects
Commissioner Higgins' Presentation on Ongoing Projects
Commissioner Eileen Higgins shared an overview of the critical initiatives her office is spearheading to address traffic and safety concerns in the area. She highlighted several projects, including metromover upgrade updates, installation of Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons R-R-F-B along Brickell Bay Drive, pedestrian safety enhancements, infrastructure upgrades, and public transportation initiatives. Her presentation (which is available for you to view here) demonstrated a commitment to making Brickell a safer and more accessible community for residents and visitors alike.
FDOT's Update on the Brickell Avenue Bridge
Pablo Orozco, P.E., MSCE, CPM, District Six Structures Maintenance Engineer from FDOT, presented a comprehensive update on the Brickell Avenue Bridge. He discussed the bridge's operational challenges, particularly its status as a drawbridge that must open on demand when a boat notifies the operator using sound, flag, lights, or radio. By law, the bridge must open quickly once a boat requests passage.
However, Orozco clarified that the Brickell Avenue Bridge has specific operational guidelines to minimize traffic disruption during peak hours under the Code of Federal Regulations.
From 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday (excluding federal holidays), the bridge is only required to open on the hour and half-hour. Furthermore, the bridge is exempt from opening for boats during critical times such as 7:35 a.m. to 8:59 a.m., 12:05 p.m. to 12:59 p.m., and 4:35 p.m. to 5:59 p.m., unless it's an emergency.
Drawbridge Notifications:
To sign up for drawbridge crossing notifications, follow these steps:
1. Go to the FL511 website.
2. Click on "Sign Up" and fill in your personal information.
3. Once logged in, navigate to "My Florida 511" and select "My Routes & Notifications."
4. Under "My Drawbridge Crossing Notification," choose the bridge you want notifications for, set the preferred days and times, and select how you wish to receive notifications (email, SMS, or both).
5. Click "Subscribe" to complete the setup. You will now start receiving drawbridge crossing notifications based on your preferences.
Scooters and Illegal Parking
Angel Diaz Jr., Director of Operations, addressed the ongoing issues with scooters and illegal parking in the area. He explained that many scooters are parked illegally on sidewalks or block traffic, often making enforcement difficult, as riders tend to disperse before officers arrive.
To tackle this, the police are shifting from merely issuing parking violations to giving out actual citations that affect the driver's license. The department is also equipped with access to the pay-by-phone app, allowing officers to check whether scooters have paid for their parking. Many riders do not pay, and this will enable officers to fine them and request their driver's license information. This new approach aims to curb the behavior and make streets safer for both pedestrians and drivers.
Microhub is part of the solution! Microhub is a technology company that addresses complex urban challenges with innovative solutions. When condos partner with Microhub and outsource their mailroom operations, they can significantly reduce traffic congestion and delivery frequency, creating a more streamlined process for residents. Microhub's centralized delivery system consolidates all incoming packages in one secure location, which minimizes the need for delivery vehicles to make repeated trips to individual units. This alleviates congestion and enhances convenience and organization for residents, offering them a smoother, more efficient experience in receiving their deliveries. Are you interested in learning more about how this works? Let's connect you with Henrick Bages | (707) 376-5878, hendrick@microhub.com and Amir Emacha 347- 583-2287, amire@microhub.com to explore the available solutions.
