News Summary
Jacksonville has initiated the construction phase of the Emerald Trail, marked by the groundbreaking of the Hogan Street Link. The project, led by VyStar Credit Union, aims to enhance access between key downtown locations with a new two-way cycle track. Local leaders and residents are expected to attend the ceremony, showcasing the city’s commitment to improving infrastructure and green spaces. Residents can also join a fun run event benefiting Groundwork Jacksonville. Despite funding challenges, the construction of the Hogan Street Link and other segments continues.
Jacksonville has officially launched the construction phase of the Emerald Trail with a groundbreaking ceremony for the Hogan Street Link. The event will be hosted by the City of Jacksonville, Groundwork Jacksonville, and VyStar Credit Union, taking place on Thursday, September 25, at 10 a.m. on Hogan Street. This ceremony marks the commencement of the first construction phase for the Hogan Street Link, which represents the second segment of the Emerald Trail to be completed.
VyStar Credit Union is the lead sponsor for the Hogan Street Link, a critical part of the larger Emerald Trail project. This link extends from Union Street to Riverfront Plaza and the Northbank Riverwalk, and it will incorporate a two-way cycle track. The Hogan Street Link will connect several key locations in downtown Jacksonville, including the JTA Rosa Parks Transit Station, City Hall, James Weldon Johnson Park, and VyStar’s headquarters, enhancing mobility across the area.
Local officials, stakeholders, and residents are expected to gather at the groundbreaking ceremony, highlighting the city’s commitment to enhancing its infrastructure and green spaces. Attendees will include Mayor Donna Deegan, Kay Ehas from Groundwork Jacksonville, Brian Wolfburg from VyStar, and local elected officials.
Following the groundbreaking, residents can participate in the 6th Annual VyStar Emerald Trail 5K-10K Run/Walk and 1-Mile Fun Run, scheduled for September 27. This event aims to benefit Groundwork Jacksonville’s mission to improve green spaces in the city. People of all ages can enjoy a scenic route along the Emerald Trail LaVilla Link and S-Line Rail Trail. The run/walk will not only be a physical challenge but will also feature wellness, history, and nature education activities, along with food trucks and giveaways.
This run/walk coincides with VyStar’s “Good is everywhere” celebration occurring from September 10 to September 30. The “Less Screen. More Green Challenge” by Project OneHealth will also take place during the event. Additionally, the Mayor Deegan’s River City Readers Bookmobile will be on-site to provide free books and facilitate library card sign-ups.
Despite previous challenges resulting in Jacksonville losing $147 million in federal funding for the Emerald Trail project due to shifts in administration and grant programs, significant progress is still being made. Groundwork Jacksonville and the Jacksonville Transportation Authority are actively pursuing alternative funding sources to ensure the project’s future success. While funding issues have been a challenge, the second to fourth segments, including the Hogan Street Link, are moving forward.
City leaders are prioritizing downtown segments for construction, focusing on efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Local funding, particularly from gas tax revenue, will play a vital role in sustaining the momentum of downtown construction. Currently, the full completion timeline for the Emerald Trail project remains uncertain, as city officials continue to seek the necessary funds for remaining segments.
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Additional Resources
- WOKV: Emerald Trail Hogan Street Link Groundbreaking Ceremony
- Action News Jax: VyStar Emerald Trail Run/Walk Set for September 27
- Jacksonville.com: Trump’s Budget Cuts $147 Million for Emerald Trail
- First Coast News: Jacksonville’s Emerald Trail Plans Hit Roadblock
- Jax Daily Record: Federal Government Axes $147 Million Grant for Emerald Trail
- Wikipedia: Emerald Trail
- Google Search: Emerald Trail Jacksonville
- Google Scholar: Emerald Trail Jacksonville
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Emerald Trail
- Google News: Emerald Trail Jacksonville
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.
