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CRA hears competing views on kiosk location; Journal Plaza, Chamber and Stewart Park favored
Summary
The CRA and public discussed potential kiosk locations for visitor wayfinding. Journal Plaza proponents argued for maximum visibility; the police chief warned against siting that could block sight lines at intersections.
The CRA heard a sustained discussion about where a proposed town kiosk should be placed to maximize visitor wayfinding.
Michael (Journal Plaza owner/operator) and several business owners argued the kiosk should be located at Journal Plaza because it draws heavy weekend traffic from the farmers market and would reach more visitors. "If you want the most people to see it and touch it, it's probably gonna be at the Journal Plaza," Michael said, adding that the plaza sees thousands of visitors and that power for a kiosk could be tied into nearby infrastructure.
Others, including Jennifer Bush and Marlene Barger, suggested a location near the Chamber of Commerce and Stewart Park so visitors starting at the welcome center find the kiosk and explore other parts of town. Police Chief Mark Schneider cautioned the CRA not to place a kiosk where it would block views at intersections or distract drivers near new crosswalks. "I would also not recommend putting it near the pavers in the new crosswalk," Schneider said, citing pedestrian safety and sight-line concerns.
Why it matters: A kiosk is intended to help visitors find attractions outside the most-trafficked plaza and support small businesses around town. CRA members said centralized, data-driven siting and coordination with the county development council and police would guide the final decision.
Next steps: Staff said the county development council and Central Florida Regional Planning are involved in kiosk discussions and that a final site will be chosen after contracts and siting are resolved. The CRA did not take a formal vote on kiosk siting at the meeting.
