DOT Celebrates Groundbreaking of First Bus Rapid Transit System in Jacksonville

Nov. 17, 2014
U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx on Nov. 17 participated in a groundbreaking for a new bus rapid transit (BRT) system that will improve transit options in the greater Jacksonville area and offer faster, more convenient access to downtown.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx on Nov. 17 participated in a groundbreaking for a new bus rapid transit (BRT) system that will improve transit options in the greater Jacksonville area and offer faster, more convenient access to downtown. Secretary Foxx was joined by Jacksonville Mayor Alvin Brown, Acting Federal Transit Administrator Therese McMillan, representatives from the Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA), and other state and local officials.

“Bringing bus rapid transit to this community will connect residents to work, education and other opportunities while making it easier than ever for residents to access downtown Jacksonville and beyond,” said Secretary Foxx. “We’re proud to celebrate this milestone – but we must do more. We are committed to working with Congress to find bipartisan solutions that will help Jacksonville and other communities continue to invest in and enhance their transportation infrastructure in the years ahead.”

The First Coast Flyer BRT Downtown Project, nearly six miles long with 12 stations, is the initial segment of a five-phased BRT system planned for the Jacksonville region.  The new service will operate in dedicated lanes during peak hours for a portion of the route.  The BRT project offers riders an alternative to congested roads, and a faster commute to such downtown employers as Baptist Hospital, Suddath Relocation Systems, and the new Duval County Courthouse, as well as to businesses in the Riverplace Tower and the Prudential building. 

“As Jacksonville’s population continues to grow, it’s clear that more good transportation options will help this city plan effectively for the future,” said Acting Federal Transit Administrator McMillan.  “This new BRT service offers commuters a more efficient ride, while spurring new economic development and opportunities along the corridor.”

The initial downtown BRT line costs $13.4 million, with $9.3 million provided by FTA. JTA and the Florida Department of Transportation provided the remaining funds. 

JTA is seeking federal funds for the next two planned BRT segments—the 9.4-mile North corridor and the 11.1-mile Southeast corridor. Both projects are advancing through FTA’s Capital Investment Grant Program. JTA estimates that the entire BRT system will cover 55 miles and cost approximately $132.3 million.