Public Meetings to Discuss Jacksonville’s Ultimate Urban Circulator
Jacksonville, Fla. — The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) is moving forward with a plan to transform the existing Skyway system into what it calls the Ultimate Urban Circulator (U2C), using rubber-tired shuttles that will operate both on the elevated structures and city streets. This proposal has stirred significant debate, prompting both supporters and critics to voice their opinions in upcoming public meetings.
Understanding the Plan
In a recent board meeting, the JTA approved a contract worth $6.7 million with HNTB, a consulting firm tasked with conducting a comprehensive study of various options for improving downtown transportation along the Skyway corridor. This study will not only explore different transit technologies but also include a “no-build alternative” that would leave the Skyway unchanged.
JTA’s ambitious vision for the U2C includes utilizing autonomous shuttles that can navigate through downtown, possibly extending to surrounding neighborhoods. The Skyway system, which stretches over 2.5 miles, has faced scrutiny for its efficiency and relevance, prompting many to reconsider its future.
Why the Study Is Necessary
The need for this extensive study arises from a significant funding commitment made in 2021 when the city doubled the local gas tax to twelve cents per gallon, consequently generating $247 million earmarked for the Skyway project. However, estimates indicate that the overall cost of upgrading the system may exceed this amount. To pursue additional funding through state and federal grants, a detailed project development and environmental study is essential.
According to Greer Gillis, the senior vice president and chief infrastructure and development officer for JTA, this study includes extensive public outreach to gather community feedback. “We have to document this as part of the environmental process,” she noted, emphasizing the importance of community involvement.
Criticism and Alternative Views
Despite the plans, the U2C initiative has received a fair share of criticism. City Council member Rory Diamond, who opposed the gas tax increase, commented that it is time to reconsider the direction of the U2C project, dubbing it the “Skyway-to-nowhere.” Similarly, Council member Jimmy Peluso has suggested redirecting the funds to create a light rail system instead, believing that would be a more effective use of taxpayer money.
As the controversy unfolds, the JTA remains committed to reviewing all available options. The first phase of the U2C project is already underway, operating along Bay Street from the Northbank office towers to the sports complex. The current study may still favor the original intention, which involves creating a seamless connection of autonomous shuttles along the Bay Street corridor.
Next Steps
While JTA has yet to announce specific dates for public meetings, community members will have opportunities to express their thoughts on the future of downtown transportation. The study is critical in determining the direction of the Skyway’s transformation, and the authority aims to ensure that the final design aligns with community needs and expectations.
JTA plans to complete the contract with HNTB and commence the extensive alternatives development. This crucial step is expected to drive forward the vision of the U2C, which has the potential to reshape public transport in Jacksonville significantly.
