St. Augustine reports more fender benders during Nights of Lights, ask people to be patient

Nights of lights and brake lights are filling downtown St. Augustine as the city hosts its world-renowned holiday event.

City officials say this year is breaking records for attendance, but police report a rise in some traffic incidents during the festivities.

Bob, a visitor, said, “What we’ve witnessed about traffic, it’s heavy.”

Susan Curry, visiting the city, said, “Yeah, I come down let’s say about five o’clock, it’s not crazy yet, park up by West King.”

The city tracks visitor numbers closely. Officials evaluate the numbers regularly and hold meetings to discuss how many riders are coming through.

Reuben Franklin, assistant city manager, said, “This is what happens when you have a popular event, traffic and people.”

Visitor Frank Catarius added, “It’s kind of busy and, you know,