DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – Homeowners in Daytona Beach’s Mosaic subdivision say they’re fed up.
Sidewalks throughout their neighborhood have become so slippery that residents say walking on the street now feels safer. Nearly 50 falls have been reported over the past three years, and the cost to fix the problem could soon fall on taxpayers.
“It’s dangerous,” said Brenda Fouser, who’s lived in Mosaic for several years. “One person broke her tailbone and is still getting treatment. Another person, his babysitter, fell. We take the risks of walking in the streets versus the sidewalks because the sidewalks are more dangerous.”
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Neighbors say the sidewalks are slick with algae buildup, worsened by drainage issues that cause standing water after rain.
Dave Fouser worries it’s only a matter of time before someone gets seriously hurt.
“You can see the buildup of the algae,” he said. “We’ve got Halloween coming up, and there will be little kids walking through the area that aren’t familiar with this neighborhood. It’s a hazard.”
Residents say they’re frustrated by the lack of progress and want a clear timeline and accountability.
The City Commission of Daytona Beach on Wednesday finalized an agreement with the developer — BII Volusia Holdings, LLC — which holds them both to a 30-day deadline to agree on a timeline and a 120-day deadline to enter into contracts. Under the proposal, both sides will share costs for the improvements.
The motion passed unanimously. Homeowners hope it means repairs can begin within the next few weeks.