ORLANDO, Fla. — Another move to keep downtown Orlando safe is in the works right now.
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Orlando city commissioners will be considering an ordinance for what they call “better control of late-night behavior” downtown.
It comes three weeks after police say a gunman opened fire on Orange Avenue, hurting seven people and sending hundreds nearby running for safety.
On Monday, the city council is considering a proposal that would require overnight parking lots to add more lighting and security.
READ: Orlando City Council plans to discuss downtown safety measures
It also limits the amount of noise at venues, and forces late-night bars and clubs to submit safety plans to the city.
The ordinance has been in the works for more than six months while crime has continued.
READ: Video shows panicked crowd in downtown Orlando shooting
The Municipal Planning Board is suggesting an amendment to the land development code to:
- Add security in parking lots, including more lighting and closing the area off when it’s not in use.
- Include a noise report for special events and sidewalk café speakers.
- A new permit for any new business trying to stay open after midnight.
Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer said the new safety changes implemented, like checkpoints and K-9 units, are making downtown Orlando safer.
READ: Downtown Orlando security checkpoints begin this weekend
“The crowd is getting better and under control,” Dyer said. “People carrying guns have not been evident, so that’s just a measure to make sure we have a great downtown.”
A city report shows there are about 100 bars in the downtown entertainment area.
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