City Council approves street closure plan for upcoming Blue Crab Festival

The Palatka City Commission meeting on May 8, 2025, focused heavily on preparations for the upcoming Blue Crab Festival, with significant discussions surrounding vendor placements and road closures. A key concern raised was the impact of event logistics on local businesses, particularly regarding access and visibility.

Commission members emphasized the need for clear signage to direct festival-goers to businesses not directly on the main route. One business owner, identified as Marshall from Remedy Staffing, expressed strong opposition to having vendors set up in front of his establishment, prompting discussions on how to accommodate his concerns while still facilitating the festival.

The commission agreed to implement a soft closure of St. John's Avenue until 5 PM on the day of the event, allowing businesses to operate normally before the festival begins. This decision aims to minimize disruption for local merchants while ensuring the festival can proceed smoothly.

Concerns were also raised about the performance of the entertainment group contracted for the festival, with several commissioners noting a decline in coordination and responsiveness compared to previous years. The commission is considering options for future events, including potentially changing providers to improve the overall experience.

In a motion to approve the festival's plans, the commission included conditions to ensure that access to St. John's Avenue remains open until the festival's hard closure at 5 PM on Friday. The motion passed unanimously, reflecting a commitment to balancing the needs of local businesses with the excitement of the festival.