Cities along Florida’s coast are preparing for spring breakers by stepping up police presence and enacting new regulations.
In an effort to reduce the mayhem during spring break on Miami’s South Beach, officials have implemented $100 flat parking fines, doubled the cost of towing for non-residents to $516, and closed several parking garages completely.
In order to prevent the chaotic scenes observed in recent years, the city will also restrict access to the beach and eliminate sidewalk seating for eateries along Ocean Drive. Increased patrols, DUI checkpoints, and bag checks were also implemented to assist deter illegal activities.
Following a turbulent spring break that included two fatal shootings and almost 500 arrests, officials have implemented additional restrictions.
The Florida Highway Patrol will be visible until three in the morning, according to the Miami Beach Police Department, and residents should expect to see more officers this weekend near the beach.
Local police agencies are anticipated to be in “high-impact” mode beginning next week, despite the fact that some students have already arrived in Florida for their spring breaks, according to CBS News.
A travel advisory for Americans intending to visit Mexico, another well-liked spring break destination for college students, has been released by the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico.
The alert stated that “U.S. citizens should exercise increased caution, especially after dark, in the downtown areas of popular spring break locations, including Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum.”
