By Patricia Lee, Owner Destinites.com
Last month, in our local Destinites Facebook group (www.Facebook.com/Destinites), I asked, “What is one positive thing you would like to see implemented in the Destin area for 2023, which you feel would benefit or even partially benefit the community?” I started the thread by saying I would like to see crosswalk bridges placed in certain areas along Hwy. 98 which lead to the beach area(s). And, I would especially like to see one that goes over to HarborWalk Village. My post received more than 400 responses and I shared some of them with you. Below is a continuation of some of those responses, which were too good not to mention. Our new mayor, Bobby Wagner, has acknowledged many of the suggestions and already started implementing action. What more could you ask? Keep in mind, though, change takes time and manpower. Go to council meetings and get involved!
Continued Wish List:
1. “We really need the Emerald Coast EC Rider to stop at VPS. It drives past the airport four times a day on Hwy. 85. Why can’t it stop? Think of all the rental cars that it could take off our roads. There has been talk on this for years but nothing has been done. Maybe our new mayor can find out the reason for community leaders not moving forward with this idea.”
2. “Limit airbnb. It has overwhelmed our community. People can’t afford rent anymore because at least half the rentals have switched over to short term.”
3. “Commercial land owners and businesses should be responsible for picking up trash on and around their property. One example is the open spaces and side areas around the Target and Winn Dixie complexes.”
4. “Definitely more bike paths OFF the main highway (like what they have on Scenic (old) 98 from Crystal Beach to the outlets, but rather through Destin and on both sides of 98. This would be fantastic for locals who work along 98. To raise money for it, we can host more 5Ks, bring back the local triathlon, etc.”
5. “Dog-friendly beach with a license – that’s also revenue for the city.”
6. “I would like to see Destin/Okaloosa County adopt the same dog permit program as Walton County, which allows you to walk your dog on the beach at certain hours of the day.”
7. “Roundabouts – keep traffic flowing all along Commons Drive and Scenic 98. Crepe Myrtles in the medians of Hwy 98.”
8. “More beach access! What I’d like to see is condos give access to the beach. It could be just five parking spots, but at least allow some access! It’s ridiculous how inaccessible some areas are like Holiday Isle. Before any non true locals attack me, I was born and raised here and remember when this was not a problem!”
9. “Commons drive west at The Home Depot entrance… need something done at that intersection. People think it’s a four-way stop and just pull out in front of you onto commons drive. Seen so many near bad accidents. Need a turnabout and four-way stop. At the same time, please repaint the directional on the road at this same area. People sit in the middle of the road instead of to the left if they’re turning left or sitting right if going right. It gets so backed up for no reason other than we need it repainted. Such an easy, cheap fix to help the flow of traffic.”
10. “A solid sports complex center for kids from young age to teenage. We love Destin, but this town caters more towards tourists than locals and, more importantly, to our kids, who will be Destin’s next generation. Second thought, I believe toll bridges should be exempt for locals who live in Destin and/or the surrounding area. Charge tourists, not locals. Help us, Bobby Wagner!”
You can see the full complete list and discussion in our Destinites Facebook group, posted in the Featured section.
If you are a Destin resident or in the close surrounding area, join our private local’s Destinites Facebook group at www.Facebook.com/Destinites — more than 7,500 members (Est. Oct. 2018). Check out the monthly newsletter and local business directory at Destinites.com. If you own a local business, you may advertise in our targeted locals group or in our newsletter, email DestinitesGroupBox@gmail.com.
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