A family in Fernandina Beach is calling for crucial safety enhancements at a local intersection notorious for frequent accidents, having seen multiple crashes since 2016.
FERNANDINA BEACH, Fla. — Concerned residents, Kathy and John Stevenson, are advocating for improvements at a dangerous intersection where cars have repeatedly collided with their home, with the latest incident occurring just this July.
The Stevensons report that the intersection at Citrona Drive and Atlantic Avenue has become hazardous due to speeding and distracted drivers, posing a significant risk to their community.
Over the past few years, their property has been struck by vehicles on four separate occasions. One particularly severe crash even resulted in a driver being hospitalized after plowing through their guest bedroom.
“Each of these accidents involved cars coming down Citrona and crossing over,” explained Kathy Stevenson. “It’s imperative we take action to protect our small town and prevent further injuries.”
In response to these persistent safety issues, the Florida Department of Transportation has conducted multiple reviews of the intersection.
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.
