News Summary
Jacksonville is set to finish Phase 1 of the Forsyth and Adams Streets conversion to two-way traffic by July 2. This initiative aims to improve traffic flow and accessibility downtown, featuring new traffic signals, expanded sidewalks, and improved urban landscapes. The two-way conversion is part of a broader Downtown master plan to enhance safety for pedestrians and cyclists and encourage local business growth. Despite some opposition, the project promises a vibrant urban atmosphere and more direct routes for all users.
Jacksonville is set to complete Phase 1 of the Forsyth and Adams Streets two-way travel conversion by July 2, with final preparations scheduled for July 1 at 6 p.m. Residents and visitors can expect all lanes to be fully operational by 6 a.m. the following morning, marking the end of a significant transformation initiative aimed at enhancing traffic flow and accessibility in the downtown area.
The completion of Phase 1 includes essential improvements such as new traffic signals, paving, lane striping, expanded sidewalks, and the installation of parking kiosks. This phase is foundational to the ongoing effort to modernize downtown Jacksonville, which features plans for a second phase focusing on sidewalk widening, tree planting, and enhanced streetscapes.
The impetus behind this project is part of Jacksonville’s broader Downtown master plan, which seeks to revert streets to their original two-way configurations. Historically, Forsyth and Adams streets were designed to accommodate traffic in both directions but were converted to one-way streets in the mid-20th century as part of evolving urban planning strategies.
The $4.6 million restoration project commenced in April 2024, with a clear goal to improve traffic patterns in a way that benefits all users of the roadways. Advocates of the two-way conversion have highlighted multiple benefits, including a reduction in traffic speeds, increased safety for pedestrians and cyclists, and improved overall livability for the urban community.
This project’s timing coincides with the city’s annual Independence Day fireworks display, which traditionally attracts heavy traffic downtown. Public Works officials have noted that once the project is completed, construction barrels will be removed, and parking spaces will become available, reducing congestion and increasing accessibility for event-goers.
In recent weeks, construction efforts required the reduction of each street to one lane, necessitating minor delays but ultimately leading to a more user-friendly environment. The streets will soon facilitate two-way traffic between Liberty and Jefferson streets, enhancing the flow of vehicles while prioritizing pedestrian and cyclist safety.
Similar urban conversions in cities across the nation have revealed encouraging statistics, suggesting that two-way traffic flow can lead to fewer accidents and even an increase in property values. However, the conversion has garnered some opposition, with concerns raised regarding traffic efficiency and pedestrian safety. Critics question whether two-way streets might complicate navigation for drivers unfamiliar with the new layouts.
Nonetheless, supporters of the initiative argue that two-way streets promote safer, more efficient travel patterns. They believe that the upcoming changes will provide more direct routes for both drivers and pedestrians and ultimately create a more vibrant urban atmosphere.
The complete revitalization project, encompassing both phases, is anticipated to be fully finalized by late 2026. This transition is just one part of a broader series of adjustments that Jacksonville has made to enhance traffic flow and improve local business dynamics in response to changing urban needs.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Jacksonville Reintroduces Two-Way Traffic on Adams and Forsyth Streets
Additional Resources
- Action News Jax
- Wikipedia: Traffic Engineering
- Jax Daily Record
- Google Search: Two-way streets benefits
- News4Jax
- Google Scholar: Urban Planning Two-way Streets
- First Coast News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Urban Traffic Flow
- MSN Money
- Google News: Downtown Jacksonville Two-way Conversion
Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
JACKSONVILLE STAFF 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.
