Jacksonville, Florida, January 7, 2026
The Florida Department of Transportation has announced that the Shands Bridge will be closed this weekend for essential maintenance, specifically paving along State Road 16. Drivers are advised to use the Buckman Bridge as an alternative route, which will add significant travel distance. The closure is part of routine maintenance aimed at improving local infrastructure, with a major replacement of the bridge scheduled for 2030. Residents are encouraged to plan ahead and stay informed on the impact of these changes.
Shands Bridge to Close for Maintenance This Weekend
Jacksonville, Florida – The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has announced that the Shands Bridge will be closed for maintenance starting at 9 p.m. on Friday, January 9, 2026, and will reopen by 4 a.m. on Monday, January 12, 2026. If additional time is required to complete the work, the bridge will remain closed during the same hours the following weekend, from January 16 to January 19, 2026.
During the closure, drivers are advised to use the Buckman Bridge as an alternative route. For those traveling from the west side of the St. Johns River, the detour adds approximately 21 miles through Clay County to reach the Buckman Bridge. Drivers on the east side of the river will experience a detour of nearly 30 miles through Fruit Cove and Mandarin.
The maintenance work includes paving on State Road 16 between Mobro Marine in Green Cove Springs and the Shands Bridge. Single-lane closures will be in effect in this area throughout the weekend. Access to homes and businesses along this route will be managed by traffic flaggers to minimize disruptions.
The Shands Bridge, which connects Clay and St. Johns counties, is scheduled for replacement in 2030. Construction has begun on a new 9,300-foot span that will feature dual 12-foot-wide travel lanes in each direction, 12-foot-wide outside shoulders, and a bicycle and pedestrian path on the northbound side. This new bridge will be part of the First Coast Expressway, a 46-mile toll road that will ultimately connect parts of Duval, Clay, and St. Johns counties.
Alternative Routes During Closure
Drivers in Jacksonville are encouraged to plan ahead as the Shands Bridge closure approaches. Utilizing the Buckman Bridge is the primary alternative for those needing to cross the St. Johns River. This detour will require longer travel times, especially for those coming from the east side where the added distance is nearly 30 miles. Circumventing the closure is crucial to alleviate frustration and ensure smooth travel for all commuters. Effective communication from FDOT will support local drivers in making informed choices.
Community Response and Involvement
While closures and detours can be challenging, community resilience and participation are often showcased during such events. Local businesses and residents are urged to remain patient and engaged, as collaborative efforts ensure that necessary maintenance can be accomplished efficiently. Support from residents towards local initiatives reflects a strong community spirit, fostering a positive environment even amid inconveniences.
Future Developments
Looking forward, the upcoming replacement of the Shands Bridge in 2030 presents an opportunity for civic improvement and enhanced infrastructure. The new span will accommodate increased traffic while providing safe passage for cyclists and pedestrians. With growth projected for the surrounding areas, the First Coast Expressway extends the benefits beyond basic crossings, promoting economic development and accessibility for the Jacksonville community.
Maintaining Local Infrastructure
The maintenance efforts by the FDOT highlight the importance of investing in infrastructure to prevent more significant issues in the future. By addressing needed repairs proactively, the state promotes better long-term outcomes for residents. This forward-thinking approach encourages local leaders to advocate for continued support and funding for infrastructure projects that benefit the broader community.
Stay Informed
For the most current information on the Shands Bridge closure and other traffic updates, drivers should consult official FDOT communications and local news outlets. Staying informed allows residents to adapt to changing conditions and embrace local improvements, aligning with Jacksonville’s ongoing commitment to community growth and development.
Key Features of the Shands Bridge Maintenance Closure
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Closure Dates | January 9-12, 2026; January 16-19, 2026 (if necessary) |
| Closure Times | 9 p.m. Friday to 4 a.m. Monday |
| Maintenance Activities | Paving on State Road 16 between Mobro Marine and the Shands Bridge |
| Alternative Route | Buckman Bridge |
| Detour Distance | Approximately 21 miles (west side) and 30 miles (east side) |
| Access to Local Businesses | Managed by traffic flaggers |
| Bridge Replacement Schedule | Scheduled for 2030 |
| New Bridge Features | Dual 12-foot-wide travel lanes, 12-foot-wide outside shoulders, bicycle and pedestrian path |
| Part of | First Coast Expressway (46-mile toll road) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When will the Shands Bridge be closed?
The Shands Bridge will be closed from 9 p.m. on Friday, January 9, 2026, to 4 a.m. on Monday, January 12, 2026. If additional time is needed, the closure will extend to the following weekend, from January 16 to January 19, 2026.
What is the reason for the closure?
The closure is for routine maintenance work, including paving on State Road 16 between Mobro Marine in Green Cove Springs and the Shands Bridge.
What alternative routes are available during the closure?
Drivers are advised to use the Buckman Bridge as an alternative route. The detour adds approximately 21 miles for those traveling from the west side of the St. Johns River and nearly 30 miles for those on the east side through Fruit Cove and Mandarin.
Will access to local businesses and homes be affected?
Access to homes and businesses along State Road 16 will be managed by traffic flaggers to minimize disruptions during the maintenance work.
Is the Shands Bridge scheduled for replacement?
Yes, the Shands Bridge is scheduled for replacement in 2030. Construction has begun on a new 9,300-foot span that will feature dual 12-foot-wide travel lanes in each direction, 12-foot-wide outside shoulders, and a bicycle and pedestrian path on the northbound side. This new bridge will be part of the First Coast Expressway, a 46-mile toll road connecting parts of Duval, Clay, and St. Johns counties.
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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.
