Local

Parking limits in Jax Beach

JACKSONVILLE BEACH, Fla. — Gone are the days of free

,

all-day street-side parking in Downtown Jacksonville Beach.  Pretty soon, those spaces will have a two hours at the request of local business owners like Bill Stevens.

"I like to see a turnover in the parking places that are around the businesses," he said.

Stevens, who owns Beachside Swimwear on First Street said the time limit benefits his business as well as his customers.  They won't have to search for parking when they just want to make a quick stop to shop.

"We've got big parking lots where people can park for longer periods of time, which are free during the week,"  he said.

Mayor Charlie Latham said the signs have been ordered.  And the two hour parking will also be free.

"It's a win-win for everybody," said Latham. "It just kind of keeps the street-side parking from becoming beachgoer traffic, and cars staying there all day.  And it facilitates a quick turnaround to get more people into our businesses and restaurants."

The new parking rules will go into effect next month.