Hemming Plaza to be Destroyed?

October 22, 2012 107 comments Open printer friendly version of this article Print Article

Looking to convert Hemming Plaza into a space that attracts people, a meeting has been called by Council members Denise Lee, Bill Gulliford, and Don Redman to discuss an ordinance to restrict card games as well as authorize the removal of benches, tables, and chairs in the park.






Under the proposed ordinance, park visitors would not be allowed to play Chess.


Hemming Plaza Video

<a href="http://static.photobucket.com/player.swf?file=http://vid301.photobucket.com/albums/nn72/Vendingman/5d0c56d3.mp4" target="_blank" class="new_win">http://static.photobucket.com/player.swf?file=http://vid301.photobucket.com/albums/nn72/Vendingman/5d0c56d3.mp4</a>

Earlier this year, Metro Jacksonville discussion board member JeffreyS recorded his walk through Hemming Plaza.  This video provides a visual image of the park in its current state.  Will restricting card games in the park as well as authorizing the removal of benches, tables, and chairs improve the park?  

The presence of no benches, tables, and chairs at the Shell gas station at Main and Union Streets has not deterred congregating at the location.  Why do we believe spending public resources to create a similar environment will do the same and some how encourage a more diverse population to use the space?  

Do you think our Council member's efforts are on the right path or do you think it's time to take a step back and develop alternatives for the future of Hemming Plaza?


Under the proposed ordinance, benches, tables, and chairs would be removed.  However, retaining walls would remain.

Update by Ennis Davis