In the early hours of Saturday morning, a night of joy and community turned into a nightmare on Seventh Avenue in Ybor City. A driver fleeing police lost control of his vehicle and careened onto the sidewalk outside Bradley’s on 7th—one of Tampa’s most beloved LGBTQ+ venues. Four lives were lost. Thirteen others were injured. The impact on the community is immeasurable.

This tragedy was preventable.

Years ago, the City of Tampa had a policy in place: closing Seventh Avenue to vehicle traffic on weekends. It was a simple, effective measure that kept nightlife crowds safer from the risk of vehicle collisions and reckless driving. That policy was discontinued. Now, we’re mourning the consequences.

Pedestrians flood this entertainment district every weekend. It’s a place where people come to dance, celebrate, and find connection—especially within the LGBTQ+ community, which relies on bars like Bradley’s as safe spaces. But how can anyone feel safe when cars can barrel through packed sidewalks?

City leaders have voiced concern and compassion. That matters. But it’s not enough. It’s time for action.

We, the undersigned, call on the Tampa City Council and Mayor Jane Castor to immediately reinstate the policy of weekend street closures on Seventh Avenue in Ybor City, from Friday evening through early Sunday morning. We also urge city officials to work with business owners, residents, and community organizations to ensure these closures are implemented thoughtfully, with safety and accessibility for all.

We cannot bring back those we’ve lost. But we can—and must—honor their memory with meaningful change. Keeping Seventh Avenue open to traffic during peak nightlife hours is a risk Tampa can no longer afford.

Don’t wait for another tragedy. Reclose the street. Protect our community.

Photo: MARTHA ASENCIO-RHINE | Tampa Bay Times