MIAMI BEACH, FLA. (WSVN) - As spring breakers arrived in Miami Beach, they came face to face with an increase in police and several safety measures implemented by city officials to deter the chaos seen in the last few years.
7News cameras on Friday captured a calm scene on Ocean Drive, near the 10th Street beach entrance, where “goodwill ambassadors” and Miami Beach Police officers were in full force.
Officers surveyed the area for any prohibited items that visitors cannot bring to the beach.
For those visiting Miami Beach, there has been some confusion with the increased police presence.
“Dang, I knew we shouldn’t came on spring break,” said Tashelia Davis.
Tashelia and her husband, Jerry Davis, came down to South Beach for their anniversary.
“We’ve been together for 18 years, we’ve been married two,” Jerry said.
The two were looking for a romantic getaway.
“Yes, spring break is going to be messed up,” he said.
“We know it’s going to be wild,” Tashelia said.
Changes around the town have already affected their plans.
“Well, today, right now, we’re looking for breakfast,” she said.
Later in the day, with the sun shining bright above beachgoers, the loudest sounds heard were the crash of the waves and the chatter among friends and family.
“Have fun, enjoy the beach, enjoy the nightlife, and just here to have fun with the girls,” said spring breaker Claudia Duverglas.
The calmer-than-expected day on the beach provided an extra layer of comfort for many visitors, knowing the safety precautions and police are all around them.
“I’m happy for the precautions to make sure that people are enjoying Miami safely,” said spring breaker Liza Itkin.
That’s exactly the response police were hoping for, and as of Friday afternoon, they said things are going smoothly.
“There has not been a noteworthy event related to spring break, and we are actually seeing a decline in arrest data, which allows us to believe that our plan is working,” said Miami Beach Police Officer Christopher Bess.
This doesn’t mean police will stop working. Extra law enforcement members will be out and about, keeping people safe and making sure they follow the rules.
As part of the new security measures, sidewalk seating will remain closed at restaurants for the weekend and next weekend, but “goodwill ambassadors” will be in the area providing helpful information.
At restaurants along the beach, seats were stacked and tables were tucked. It was a different sight than what people are used to on a sunny Friday morning.
“I was afraid it was going to be overrun, but it’s been fine. We’ve had a great time,” said a man.
But not everyone is happy with some of the new measures. Visitor Aaron McKinley said he drove up from Miami Beach to Fort Lauderdale when he heard parking $100 in some spots.
“They’re definitely doing the right thing — they pushed everybody out — but at the same time, it’s kind of a bummer because we drove 18 hours all the way here, just to find out that we’re not welcome in Miami.”
The hefty price tag is hardly the only parking restriction for visitors coming to South Beach. From Friday at 6 a.m until Monday at 6 a.m., over the next two weeks, the city’s garages and surface lots will only be open to residents and city employees.
In addition, the towing rate is doubling for non-residents to $516. Barricades will also block off the streets, and police will set up DUI checkpoints and bag checks to get on the beach.
“They’re doing an amazing job, there’s security everywhere, so I’m very happy with that,” said Angela, who is visiting South Beach.
Last year, large crowds, shootings and stampedes left two people dead. During that time, over 600 people were arrested.
The safety precautions are part of the city’s “Spring Break Breakup” measures. The city posted a video online about the steps they’re taking to keep the peace this year.
Officials are hoping that the calm continues throughout the weekend.
The Davises are also looking forward to enjoying their time together.
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