Toney Sleiman and John Arwood were both born and raised in Jacksonville. They love Jacksonville and have planted their professional careers here by building many home grown successful businesses. They have raised their children here and plan to spend the rest of their lives living, working, playing and enjoying the benefits of all Jacksonville has to offer.

They recently put their heads together to come up with simple ideas to rejuvenate Downtown Jacksonville. Their proposal revolves around two fundamental changes: illuminating the city streets and transforming the existing one-way streets into two-way thoroughfares. These changes are designed not only to enhance safety but also to create a more inviting and thriving downtown environment.

The Power of Illumination

If we can light up bridges, we can light up downtown. Sleiman and Arwood firmly believe that well-lit streets can wield a transformative influence on a downtown area’s overall atmosphere and safety. Numerous cities across the United States have already experienced remarkable growth and revitalization by implementing thoughtfully designed street lighting initiatives. Some noteworthy examples include:

1. Austin, Texas: The “Illuminating Austin” project significantly elevated the ambiance and safety of the downtown district. The project’s success underscores the positive impact of improved lighting on urban areas.
2. Kansas City, Missouri: The installation of decorative streetlights along the iconic Country Club Plaza area breathed new life into the entire neighborhood. It served as a catalyst for economic growth and community engagement.

The benefits of having a well lit downtown are vast such as:

1. Enhanced Aesthetics: Well-designed street lighting can transform the appearance of a downtown area, making it more visually appealing. Artistic and decorative lighting installations can create a unique and inviting atmosphere that draws people in.
2. Increased Tourism: A well lit downtown is more likely to attract tourists and visitors. When streets and landmarks are beautifully illuminated, they become attractive destinations for sightseeing and photography.
3. Extended Business Hours: Improved lighting encourages businesses to stay open later, thereby extending the hours during which people can shop, dine, and enjoy entertainment. This can significantly boost the local economy.
4. Reduced Crime: In addition to safety, better lighting has been shown to reduce crime rates. Well-lit streets and public spaces create a sense of visibility and security, discouraging criminal activity.
5. Community Engagement: Well-lit areas tend to be more inviting for community events and gatherings. Parks, squares, and public spaces can become hubs for cultural events, festivals, and social activities, fostering a stronger sense of community.
6. Promotion of Outdoor Dining and Retail: Restaurants and retail establishments can benefit from well-lit sidewalks and outdoor seating areas. This encourages people to dine and shop al fresco, contributing to the local economy.
7. Improved Pedestrian Safety: Besides reducing the risk of accidents, well-lit streets also make pedestrians feel safer, encouraging more people to walk and explore the downtown area. This can reduce traffic congestion and promote a healthier lifestyle.
8. Environmental Sustainability: Modern lighting technologies, such as LED lighting, are not only energy-efficient but also environmentally friendly. They reduce light pollution and energy consumption, contributing to a more sustainable urban environment.
9. Cultural and Historical Preservation: Lighting can be used to highlight architectural details, historical landmarks, and cultural heritage sites, preserving and showcasing the city’s rich history and culture.
10. Economic Growth: A well lit downtown can attract investors and businesses, leading to economic growth and job creation. Businesses are more likely to establish themselves in areas that offer a safe and visually appealing environment.
11. Sense of Pride: A beautifully lit downtown area can instill a sense of pride and ownership among residents. It becomes a point of civic pride and can help build a positive reputation for the city.

Transitioning to Two-Way Streets

Another key element of the proposal involves the conversion of one-way streets into two-way thoroughfares. Many thriving cities have successfully made this transition, resulting in increased business activity and improved traffic flow. Examples include:

1. Indianapolis, Indiana: The conversion of several downtown streets to two-way has contributed significantly to a more accessible and pedestrian-friendly environment. It has spurred economic growth and revitalization.
2. Columbus, Ohio: The Short North Arts District experienced substantial growth after converting streets to two-way traffic. This transformation facilitated easier navigation and encouraged more visitors to explore the vibrant district.

By implementing these two fundamental changes—well-lit streets and two-way traffic—Sleiman and Arwood believe that Jacksonville’s downtown will flourish. The benefits extend beyond safety to creating a more welcoming atmosphere that encourages residents and visitors to spend more time and money in the downtown area.

Arwood and Sleiman are on the move discussing these simple ideas with the Mayor and other powers-to-be. They believe with all the talk about investing billions in the Jaguars and other downtown buildings – the easy fix is to get the lights shining brightly and turn those one ways into two ways NOW.