Car monitor project celebrates one year

THE Florida Road Urban Improvement Precinct (UIP) celebrated the first anniversary of its Sidewalk Monitors programme last week.

According to precinct manager, Jarrod Evans, before 5 October 2015, Florida Road faced the reality of a criminal element masquerading as car guards. These individuals were directly involved in blatant drug dealing in broad daylight, theft out of motor vehicles, and regularly intimidated women visitors for tips.

Then came the Florida Road Sidewalk Monitor Programme (SM), an initiative made possible thanks to support from the eThekwini Municipality, Metro Police, Enforce Security Services and Berea SAPS. Evans said the collective time and effort contributed immensely to the success of the SM programme and Florida Road as Durban’s premier entertainment and business node.

“The rollout of the SM plan saw an immediate change on Florida Road. The formalised Sidewalk Monitor structure brought with it a sudden calmness to the road, leaving one with a perception of a welcoming, friendly and enjoyable place to visit, live and conduct business. This feeling continues to prevail as we collectively care for Florida Road,” said Evans.