Summary
Cars keep crashing into the historic Plaza park — 43 incursions since 2018, mostly drunk drivers at night. The council approved new bollards and turning off misleading park lights, but held off on pricier splitter islands and raised crosswalks pending feasibility and funding study.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 3
- Last 30 days
- 0
Last discussed Jun 9, 2026.
Impact analysis
Bollards run about $300,000, likely from the general fund since park improvements don't qualify for gas tax money; grants and county funds may help.
Everyone who sits, dines, or walks in the Plaza — especially during crowded events.
Impaired drivers who strike the bollards face serious injury or death, a concern raised by the dissenting councilmember.
Mentions & discussions (3)
Orange City Council — June 9, 2026
Residents told the council that speeding, stop-sign running, and street racing around the Circle are making walking dangerous, and that homelessness in the Plaza is growing with little nighttime police presence.
City Traffic Commission — April 8, 2026
Since paid meters went in downtown, residents on Olive, Lemon and Almond streets can't park near their homes. The commission approved permit parking for Olive Street, but neighbors on surrounding blocks fear the problem will simply move to them.
Orange City Council — January 27, 2026
Cars keep crashing into the historic Plaza park — 43 incursions since 2018, mostly drunk drivers at night. The council approved new bollards and turning off misleading park lights, but held off on pricier splitter islands and raised crosswalks pending feasibility and funding study.
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