Council approves Cars on Fifth with conditions after months of complaints about crowding and field damage

Naples City Council approved the Cars on Fifth automobile show for Feb. 7, 2026, but attached new conditions after lengthy debate about crowd size, event logistics, and damage to a public softball field. The council voted to allow the event to proceed with a specified footprint no larger than last year and with explicit conditions on staffing, security and repairs.

Nut graf: The vote followed detailed presentations from Parks & Recreation staff and the event organizer about mitigations for crowd control, illegal parking and potential damage to Cambier Park’s softball field. Council members asked for stronger enforcement measures, a written security/exit plan signed off by police and a commitment that the organizer pay for any field repairs — and that if the field could not be restored within a short window after the event, the VIP portion would no longer be allowed there.

Key details: Parks Director Chad Merritt told council the organizer agreed to a new layout that avoids heavy RVs and boats on the field; a written police-approved exit plan to reduce the “rolling thunder” parade effect; and a shorter schedule for placing temporary tape and barricades to reduce downtown disruption. The organizer, Tom O’Byrd, said the event raised millions for charity in recent years and that last year roughly 13,000 general-admission tickets and 3,000 VIP tickets were sold.

Field protection condition: Council members pressed for firm commitments about the park field: event organizers must pay for repairs and confirm field readiness within three days after the event before the field can be used again for sports. Council member Kramer added that if the field is unsafe after the required repairs the event will be prohibited from using the field in future years.

Parking and transit: The Naples Players and Parks staff also highlighted ongoing parking pressures downtown. The Cars on Fifth organizer said shuttle service and designated pickup/drop-off zones exist; staff and council recommended stronger signage and enforcement of no-parking zones and piloted rideshare drop-off zones similar to airport curbside areas.

After-action review and alternatives: Council asked staff and the organizer to return with an after-action report in March 2026 assessing compliance with the conditions and to propose alternative venues (including the County sports complex and possible hotel or Ritz locations) for future years if downtown impacts persist.

Ending: The council approved the event on the condition it adhere to the new measures and provide proof of arrangements, and retained the ability to revisit venue and permit decisions depending on compliance and future impacts.