Multi-Story Parking at South Beach

It has come to my attention that there is a proposal being floated to install a multi-level parking garage at the County parking lot adjacent to Marco’s South Beach. 

I am writing to voice my opposition to this proposal. The data being circulated in support of the County’s proposal purports to show the need for extra parking, but in fact it does no such thing.

Here are the supporting figures in tabulated form

Based on the county’s own data, the existing facility is at full occupancy less than one-half of the time. Those who would foist this upon us should remember that South Beach attendances in 2020 were exceptional, particularly during the period when the east coast beaches were closed.

Questions that require answering include: What did the figures look like for the 2018-2019 period? How many floors of parking would be involved, what are the plans for facility management and security, plans for bathroom facilities and trash management, impact on traffic flows at the south end of the Island, particularly entrance and egress on Swallow Avenue? Finally, to what extent will the multi-level parking at Tigertail Beach mitigate the supposed need?

Anyone resident last summer will recall the challenges resulting from ill-behaved and disrespectful crowds on South Beach, and the decline in the general quality of the beach experience. The photographs should give a sense of the situation for residents who were not here and a timely reminder for those who were. How will the County improve on this record if even more day-trippers are on South Beach?

Why would any Marco resident wish for such a thing? Please contact your City Council and County Commissioner and make your views known.

Andrew Tyler

Marco Island