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In the coastal town of Fernandina Beach, a local family is calling for crucial safety enhancements at a hazardous intersection near their residence. This intersection has witnessed multiple vehicular accidents since 2016, with the latest occurring in July.
Kathy and John Stevenson, residents of the area, are voicing concerns over the corner of Citrona Drive and Atlantic Avenue, which they believe has become perilous due to speeding and distracted drivers. This intersection has turned into a recurring crash site, threatening the safety of their neighborhood.
Alarmingly, the Stevensons’ property has been struck four times by out-of-control vehicles. One particularly severe incident resulted in a car plowing through their guest bedroom, necessitating hospitalization for the driver.
“All four of them came down Citrona and came across,” recounted Kathy Stevenson. She stressed the urgent need for action, stating, “We’ve got to do something for our little town so people aren’t hurt.”
“All four of them came down Citrona and came across,” Kathy Stevenson said. “We’ve got to do something for our little town so people aren’t hurt.”
The Florida Department of Transportation said it has reviewed the intersection several times because of ongoing safety concerns.
In a 2023 meeting with the Stevensons, FDOT proposed installing reflective signage to make drivers more alert, but the homeowners expressed concerns about placing signs in front of their property, and FDOT says the project was not completed.
After the crash in July 2025, FDOT engineers recommended adding additional rumble strips and enhanced signage to improve driver awareness.
The city of Fernandina Beach had already installed rumble strips and other measures near the home.
Meanwhile, the Stevensons have taken their own steps, adding green concrete bollards and large landscape rocks to protect their property.
“We’ve done everything we can do financially, putting up bollards and everything,” Stevenson said.
Because Citrona Drive is locally maintained, FDOT says any new safety changes must be approved by both the city and Nassau County.
Fernandina Beach City Manager Sarah Campbell called the situation tragic and said city leaders have met with the family’s attorney to explore additional safety measures, such as installing a wrought iron fence or gated barrier.
Nassau County officials have not yet responded to requests for comment.
“I said, put in speed humps, that may come into fruition, I don’t really know,” Stevenson said. “I’m not giving up.”
FDOT and city officials say they plan to continue working together with the family to find permanent solutions for the intersection.
