It was a packed and heated meeting in Lakeview Tuesday evening as dozens of residents voiced concerns about a proposal to build a parking lot across from homes.
“It’s just not going to be an advantage to our properties,” said Brian Spurlock.
Spurlock has lived in Lakeview for two decades. He is against the idea of a new parking lot being built in his neighborhood.
“Right now it’s a recreational area where people walk their dogs, throw Frisbees and play,” said Spurlock.
A vacant field on Florida Boulevard is where the lot’s owners are proposing to build a long-term parking lot. It would be used to store boat’s trailers and cars.
Many neighbors are outraged by the idea and say it poses major issues, including increased traffic and could damage the roads.
“Florida Avenue, the main street and front entrance for the facility, is in terrible disrepair now, bringing additional heavy vehicles on it will make things worse,” said William Knix.
Lakeview residents received this letter in the mail from the Lupo family, who own the vacant lot, inviting them to a meeting about the project.
The meeting was packed as more than 70 neighbors filled a small room to share their concerns about the project.
Architects say the property would be well lit, secured with a 10 foot fence and cameras but neighbors are worried that may not be enough.
“We think this razor-wire facility will be a temptation for people to break in and steal things and move from there into our neighborhood,” said Knix.
Brian Anderson, the architect who hosted the meeting with residents, declined WDSU’s request for an interview.
Instead, he gave us this statement that says in part:
“The meeting was a bit continuous, but the owners of the property want to do what’s right for the neighborhood, and they are willing to meet with residents in the coming weeks.”
Right now, there is no set date on when he will meet with residents again.
READ MORE:Lakeview residents voice concerns over proposed new parking lot
