Miami Beach officials are hoping to limit the chaos of this year's spring break, with a campaign featuring breakup videos and a long list of rules and regulations.
The most noticeable change compared to past years is parking. South Beach public and surface parking lots will be closed from March 7-10 and March 14-17. Towing fees for non-residents will be $516, double the regular rate.
The owner of Bally's in Sunset Harbor says about 70 percent of his customers drive to his fitness studio from the greater Miami area. With parking unavailable for the next two weekends, he expects revenue to take a big hit.
“I think the idea of limiting the number of people coming in and restricting people's access a little more might help curb some of the crime, but I don't think they're considering Lyft. .Anyone can park anywhere in Barber, Brickell city center or downtown and walk across the causeway,” said James Provencher, owner of Bally's. “There are many other ways for people to come here.”
“While we understand that these restrictions will impact businesses in the short term, we must act in the long-term interest of businesses, residents, and visitors,” a Miami Beach spokesperson said in a statement. There is,” he said.
Bally's owners also believe there is a lot of confusion over parking for people who frequent the area but may not be residents.
“I don't think anyone was completely aware of it. On the first Friday, when I saw it happening, I went and stood there directing people because there were no signs and what “Because no one knew what was happening,” he said. So it was kind of an archaic process that wasn't fully implemented. ”
NBC6 spoke to several people in the greater Miami area and most did not know about these new rules.
Some Ocean Drive operators agree with the change, arguing it's worth it from a safety standpoint.
