Jacksonville, Florida, December 4, 2025
A community task force in Jacksonville, Florida, is advocating for the replacement of the aging Mathews Bridge, citing safety and structural concerns. The task force was formed after an op-ed by a local history center chair and is planning further discussions on the feasibility and planning of a new bridge. Despite the Florida Department of Transportation’s assurance of the bridge’s current safety, community leaders emphasize the need for future planning and collaboration among various stakeholders.
Jacksonville, Florida: Community Task Force Advocates for Mathews Bridge Replacement
Jacksonville, Florida – A newly established community task force is actively advocating for the replacement of the 72-year-old Mathews Bridge, citing safety and structural concerns. The group aims to raise awareness and initiate discussions on the feasibility and planning of a new bridge to replace the existing structure.
Formation of the Task Force
The task force was formed following an op-ed by the Chair of the Jacksonville History Center, who highlighted the bridge’s deteriorating condition. The group has already held its inaugural meeting, with plans for additional sessions to further address the issue.
Bridge’s Current Condition and Safety Concerns
Completed in 1953, the Mathews Bridge serves as a major traffic artery connecting downtown Jacksonville to the Arlington neighborhood. Despite ongoing maintenance by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), the bridge is approaching the end of its useful life. Concerns have been raised about the bridge’s ability to accommodate current traffic patterns and provide safe conditions for motorists and pedestrians.
Community and Official Responses
Councilmember Ken Amaro, representing Arlington, has joined the task force, emphasizing the need for collaboration among FDOT, the maritime community, and public safety officials. He advocates for initiating conversations now to plan for a future replacement, considering the project’s scale and the coordination required among local, state, and federal entities.
In response to the task force’s concerns, FDOT has stated that the Mathews Bridge is safe, reliable, and well-maintained, with no immediate plans for replacement. The department assures that any structural issues would lead to immediate closure if necessary.
Historical Context and Previous Incidents
The Mathews Bridge has a history of incidents affecting its structural integrity. In 2013, a naval vessel struck a critical steel member, causing significant damage and leading to a month-long closure for repairs. This event underscored the bridge’s vulnerability to large vessel collisions, raising questions about its long-term viability.
Next Steps and Community Involvement
The task force plans to continue its efforts by conducting further meetings to assess the bridge’s condition, estimate replacement costs, and build community support for the project. The goal is to develop a comprehensive plan that addresses the bridge’s future and ensures the safety and efficiency of this vital transportation link for Jacksonville residents.
Key Features of the Mathews Bridge Replacement Initiative
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Formation of Community Task Force | A group established to advocate for the replacement of the Mathews Bridge due to safety and structural concerns. |
| Bridge’s Current Condition | The Mathews Bridge, completed in 1953, is approaching the end of its useful life and may not accommodate current traffic patterns effectively. |
| FDOT’s Response | FDOT states that the Mathews Bridge is safe, reliable, and well-maintained, with no immediate plans for replacement. |
| Historical Incident | In 2013, a naval vessel struck a critical steel member of the bridge, causing significant damage and leading to a month-long closure for repairs. |
| Next Steps for Task Force | The task force plans to conduct further meetings to assess the bridge’s condition, estimate replacement costs, and build community support for the project. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Mathews Bridge?
The Mathews Bridge is a 72-year-old cantilever bridge in Jacksonville, Florida, connecting downtown Jacksonville to the Arlington neighborhood. It serves as a major traffic artery for the area.
Why is there a push to replace the Mathews Bridge?
The newly formed community task force is advocating for the bridge’s replacement due to safety and structural concerns, as the bridge is approaching the end of its useful life and may not accommodate current traffic patterns effectively.
Who is involved in the community task force?
The task force includes the Chair of the Jacksonville History Center and Councilmember Ken Amaro, representing Arlington. They are collaborating with FDOT, the maritime community, and public safety officials to address the bridge’s future.
What is FDOT’s stance on the bridge’s condition?
FDOT has stated that the Mathews Bridge is safe, reliable, and well-maintained, with no immediate plans for replacement. The department assures that any structural issues would lead to immediate closure if necessary.
What incidents have occurred involving the Mathews Bridge?
In 2013, a naval vessel struck a critical steel member of the bridge, causing significant damage and leading to a month-long closure for repairs. This incident highlighted the bridge’s vulnerability to large vessel collisions.
What are the next steps for the community task force?
The task force plans to conduct further meetings to assess the bridge’s condition, estimate replacement costs, and build community support for the project, aiming to develop a comprehensive plan for the bridge’s future.
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