Jacksonville, Florida, December 12, 2025
The Jacksonville Transportation Authority has announced a reduction in bus fares and the introduction of free downtown shuttles starting February 1, 2026. The bus fare will decrease from $1.75 to $1, while NAVI shuttles will be free to encourage public transport usage. These initiatives aim to increase ridership and financial sustainability for the JTA. The pilot program for free shuttles will run through August 31, 2026, and is designed to enhance public transportation accessibility in Jacksonville.
Jacksonville Transportation Authority Reduces Bus Fares and Offers Free Downtown Shuttles
Jacksonville, Florida – The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) has announced significant fare reductions for its bus services and the introduction of free downtown shuttles, effective February 1, 2026. These changes aim to make public transportation more accessible and encourage increased ridership.
Fare Reductions and Free Downtown Shuttles
Starting February 1, 2026, the standard bus fare will decrease from $1.75 to $1. This reduction returns the fare to its 2011 level, providing relief to riders amid rising living costs. Additionally, JTA will eliminate fares for the downtown NAVI (Neighborhood Autonomous Vehicle Innovation) shuttles, making them free for all passengers. This initiative is part of a pilot program running from February 1 through August 31, 2026, with the goal of attracting new riders and boosting overall farebox revenue.
Background on NAVI Shuttles
The NAVI shuttles, launched on June 30, 2025, are autonomous vehicles operating along a 3.5-mile stretch of downtown Jacksonville known as the Bay Street Innovation Corridor. Designed to provide convenient transportation to various downtown destinations, these shuttles have faced challenges in attracting consistent ridership. By offering free rides, JTA aims to increase usage and assess the service’s viability in the city’s public transportation landscape.
Implementation and Expectations
JTA board members unanimously approved the fare reduction and the free NAVI shuttle initiative during their December 11, 2025, meeting. The agency anticipates that these changes will not only alleviate financial burdens for current riders but also attract new passengers, ultimately leading to increased farebox revenue. The pilot program will be closely monitored to evaluate its effectiveness and inform future transportation policies in Jacksonville.
About the Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA)
The Jacksonville Transportation Authority is an independent state agency serving Jacksonville, Florida, and Northeast Florida with multi-modal responsibilities. JTA provides varied mass public transit services and builds roads, bridges, and other infrastructure to enhance mobility in Jacksonville. Public transportation services include bus and regular bus service, Neighborhood Autonomous Vehicle Innovation (NAVI), paratransit, the St. Johns River Ferry, Skyway APM, and other mobility and on-demand services in Duval, Clay, Nassau, and St. Johns counties. To learn more, visit www.jtafla.com.
Key Features of the Fare Reduction and Free NAVI Shuttles
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Bus Fare Reduction | Standard fare decreased from $1.75 to $1, effective February 1, 2026. |
| Free NAVI Shuttles | Downtown NAVI shuttles will be free for all passengers starting February 1, 2026, as part of a pilot program running through August 31, 2026. |
| Pilot Program Duration | The pilot program for free NAVI shuttles will run from February 1 through August 31, 2026. |
| Purpose | Aim to make public transportation more accessible, attract new riders, and increase overall farebox revenue in Jacksonville. |
| JTA Services | JTA provides various public transportation services, including bus and regular bus service, Neighborhood Autonomous Vehicle Innovation (NAVI), paratransit, the St. Johns River Ferry, Skyway APM, and other mobility and on-demand services in Duval, Clay, Nassau, and St. Johns counties. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the new bus fare in Jacksonville?
The standard bus fare will decrease from $1.75 to $1, effective February 1, 2026.
Are the downtown NAVI shuttles still free?
Yes, the downtown NAVI shuttles will be free for all passengers starting February 1, 2026, as part of a pilot program running through August 31, 2026.
What is the purpose of the fare reduction and free NAVI shuttles?
The initiatives aim to make public transportation more accessible, attract new riders, and increase overall farebox revenue in Jacksonville.
How long will the pilot program for free NAVI shuttles last?
The pilot program for free NAVI shuttles will run from February 1 through August 31, 2026.
Where can I find more information about JTA’s services?
For more details about JTA’s services, visit their official website at www.jtafla.com.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
New Florida Laws Taking Effect January 2026
Chicago Bears Secure Fifth Straight Victory Against Eagles
Florida Faces Economic Struggles Amid Canadian Tourism Decline
Tri-Rail Faces Uncertain Future Amid Funding Cuts
Jacksonville Community Mourns the Loss of Local Leaders
Changes Ahead at Disney: Layoffs and Program Consolidations
A Farewell to Party City: The End of an Era
Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
