Business owners ask St. Pete to increase funding for roadway improvements

April 27, 2026 - 03:51

Navigating a dangerous dash across five lanes of traffic has become a daily reality for pedestrians and customers along Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Street South in St. Petersburg, according to local business owners who are now calling on the city to significantly increase funding for roadway improvements. The stretch, a major commercial corridor, has become a focal point of frustration as entrepreneurs argue that the current infrastructure is failing both their businesses and public safety.

Owners report that the lack of safe crosswalks, inadequate lighting, and high vehicle speeds are creating a hazardous environment. "We see people dodging cars every single day just to get from the parking lot to our front door," one business owner stated, highlighting a common complaint. The group is not asking for minor fixes but for a substantial reallocation of the city’s budget to address what they describe as a systemic issue. They are advocating for dedicated bike lanes, pedestrian islands, better traffic calming measures, and synchronized traffic signals to slow down the flow of vehicles.

The request comes as St. Pete continues to experience rapid growth, placing increased strain on older roadways designed for a different era. Business owners argue that without these improvements, the corridor will struggle to attract new investment and retain existing customers who feel unsafe. They have presented their case to city council members, emphasizing that the investment is not merely an expense but a critical step toward economic vitality and community safety. While city officials have acknowledged the concerns, no specific funding increase has been formally announced, leaving business owners to continue their push for a safer, more accessible Dr. MLK South.