Jacksonville, Florida, February 4, 2026
The City of Jacksonville has kicked off an important phase of the McCoys Creek Restoration Project, targeting the creek’s headwaters known as ‘The Branches.’ This initiative aims to reduce flooding, enhance water quality, and create new recreational areas for the community. Set to begin in February 2026, the project will widen the creek, introduce native vegetation, and develop park spaces, all while addressing long-standing environmental challenges in the area.
Jacksonville Embarks on McCoys Creek Restoration to Tackle Flooding
Jacksonville, Florida – The City of Jacksonville has initiated the next phase of the McCoys Creek Restoration Project, focusing on the creek’s headwaters known as “The Branches.” This phase aims to alleviate flooding, enhance water quality, and provide recreational spaces for the community.
Project Details
Scheduled to commence in February 2026, the restoration will span from Edison Avenue to Burke Street Pond and include environmental remediation at Hollybrook Park. The plan involves:
- Widening and deepening the creek to increase stormwater capacity.
- Introducing native trees, grasses, and wetlands to improve water quality and create wildlife habitats.
- Developing approximately 4 acres of new recreational space featuring parks, trails, and creek overlooks.
This work follows the completion of the McCoys Creek Outfall in fall 2025, where the creek was successfully connected to the St. Johns River, marking a significant milestone in the restoration efforts.
Community and Environmental Benefits
The restoration project is designed to:
- Reduce flooding risks in adjacent neighborhoods.
- Enhance water quality through improved stormwater management.
- Provide new parks, trails, and recreational spaces for residents and visitors.
- Connect to the Emerald Trail, a 30-mile network of trails, greenways, and parks encircling downtown Jacksonville.
- Replace existing bridges with elevated structures that include bike lanes and sidewalks, improving safety and accessibility.
Background
McCoys Creek, located west of downtown Jacksonville, has faced flooding issues due to over 100 years of channelization and extensive development in the surrounding watershed. The restoration project, initiated in 2021, is a collaborative effort between the City of Jacksonville and Groundwork Jacksonville, aiming to restore the creek to a more natural state and integrate it into the community’s urban landscape.
The project illustrates a commitment to enhancing urban infrastructure while prioritizing community engagement and environmental sustainability. By addressing these longstanding flooding challenges, Jacksonville is paving the way for enhanced local business opportunities and improved resident quality of life. The potential for increased property values and a revived urban landscape reflects the positive impact of local innovation and collaboration.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the McCoys Creek Restoration Project?
The McCoys Creek Restoration Project is an initiative by the City of Jacksonville to restore McCoys Creek to a natural waterway, aiming to reduce flooding, improve water quality, and provide recreational spaces for the community. The project includes widening and deepening the creek, introducing native vegetation, and developing new parks and trails along the creek’s path.
When did the restoration work begin?
Construction on the McCoys Creek Restoration Project began in 2021, with various phases focusing on different sections of the creek. The most recent phase, targeting the headwaters known as “The Branches,” is scheduled to start in February 2026.
What are the expected benefits of the project?
The project aims to reduce flooding risks in adjacent neighborhoods, enhance water quality through improved stormwater management, provide new parks and recreational spaces, and connect to the Emerald Trail, a 30-mile network of trails, greenways, and parks encircling downtown Jacksonville.
How will the project impact local residents?
Residents can expect improved flood protection, enhanced recreational opportunities, and better access to green spaces. The project also aims to revitalize the area by integrating the restored creek into the urban landscape, potentially boosting local property values and community engagement.
Where can I find more information about the project?
For more information and updates on the McCoys Creek Restoration Project, visit the City of Jacksonville’s official website.
Key Features of the McCoys Creek Restoration Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Project Scope | Restoration of McCoys Creek to a natural waterway, including widening and deepening the creek, introducing native vegetation, and developing new parks and trails along the creek’s path. |
| Start Date | February 2026 |
| Location | From Edison Avenue to Burke Street Pond, including environmental remediation at Hollybrook Park. |
| Community Benefits | Improved flood protection, enhanced water quality, new recreational spaces, and connection to the Emerald Trail. |
| Environmental Benefits | Restoration of natural habitats, increased biodiversity, and improved stormwater management. |
| Project Partners | City of Jacksonville and Groundwork Jacksonville. |
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