TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — A Leon County judge has denied the request for injunction by neighbors, over a project that's impacting the community.
We've been following this story for weeks and Friday's decision is a big disappointment for those neighbors.
This means that Still Court and Miles Street will still be closed for construction as the city continues work on its project to build a connector road from FAMU Way to Lake Bradford. People in the Boynton Still neighborhood were upset with the judge's decision.
"I'm disappointed that the judge didn't see it our way. I'm just disappointed," said Vivian Scott, plaintiff for Boynton Still neighborhood.
After weeks of back and forth between the City of Tallahassee and the Boynton Still neighborhood, Leon County Circuit Court Judge, John C. Cooper, chose not to grant the injunction the community requested.
"The judge said that we didn't have special injury standing, however, I can't think of anyone who would have a more special interest in this area of Boynton Still than my clients," said Leighanne Boone, plaintiff's attorney.
The focus of the hearing was whether the city had permanently or temporarily closed Miles Street and Still Court. The suit said the city violated its own land development code about notifying the public.
Attorneys for the city argued it did not have to notify the public about the closure because it was only temporary.
"The city has a right to maintain its roads, and folks don't need to run to the court house every time we close a road for temporary purpose," said Louis Norvell, Assistant City Attorney.
Even though the judge did not side with neighbors, city leaders are still encouraging those living in the city to voice their concerns.
"The city is always willing to listen and always listens. We've had many community meetings on this and many over the years. We want to hear what our citizens have to say," said Cassandra Jackson, City Attorney.
Those living in the neighborhood say, even though they did not get what they wanted, they will continue to voice their concerns.
Back to that temporary road closure. We do need to point out, city leaders expect the two roads to be closed for about one year for all of this construction.
