Venice Residents Debate Proposed Street Safety Changes

City considers adding sidewalks or converting to one-way traffic to improve pedestrian and cyclist safety.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 11:08pm

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An impressionistic, out-of-focus street scene with blurred silhouettes of pedestrians, cyclists, and parked cars, conveying the atmospheric mood and divided opinions around proposed changes to improve safety.A community divided over how to improve street safety for all users in this historic Florida neighborhood.Venice Today

A recent study found the biggest concern along Venice's Bayshore Drive and Laguna Drive is the lack of space between cars and pedestrians. Some residents, like Scott Little, say a woman walking her dog was struck a couple years ago, while others like Karen Lockhart say they've never felt unsafe. The city is considering two options to address the issue - building a sidewalk along one side of the road, or turning it into a one-way street to make room for bike and pedestrian lanes. Residents are divided, with some like Little skeptical of the city spending money on the problem, while others like June Shay say a sidewalk would be helpful.

Why it matters

This debate highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing the needs of drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists in urban neighborhoods. Improving street safety is crucial, but can be controversial when it requires reallocating limited road space. The outcome could set a precedent for how Venice approaches similar issues in the future.

The details

The city's study found the main issue is the lack of separation between vehicles and pedestrians/cyclists along Bayshore Drive and Laguna Drive. Residents have reported incidents like a woman's dog being struck while on a leash. The city is considering two options - adding a sidewalk on one side, or converting the street to one-way traffic to create dedicated bike and pedestrian lanes.

  • The city's study was recently completed.
  • A public survey on the proposals is open through April 20, 2026.

The players

Scott Little

A Venice resident who says a woman walking her dog was struck a couple years ago, though he believes the problem is 'almost nonexistent'.

Karen Lockhart

A Venice resident who says she has 'never had any issues' and only occasionally needs to step onto the grass to avoid cars.

June Shay

A Venice resident who says drivers speed and take turns fast, making it dangerous for pedestrians and cyclists without a sidewalk.

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What they’re saying

“I have never had any issues. I mean, maybe occasional jump on the grass to get out of the way.”

— Karen Lockhart

“Drivers speed and take turns fast, which can be dangerous for dog walkers, pedestrians and bicyclists without a sidewalk.”

— June Shay

What’s next

The city is asking for public input through a survey open until April 20, 2026. After reviewing the feedback, the city will decide whether to move forward with adding a sidewalk or converting the street to one-way traffic.

The takeaway

This debate highlights the challenges of improving street safety in established neighborhoods, where residents may have different priorities and concerns. The city's willingness to gather public input and consider multiple options shows an effort to balance the needs of all community members.