The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) hosted their annual State of the Authority event, themed “First Coast Forward,” where JTA CEO Nathaniel P. Ford Sr. shared the Authority’s goals and objectives for the years ahead.
“The JTA’s plans for the future of our region are ambitious, but they will create more holistic transportation opportunities, regardless of your transportation mode,” said Ford. “Whether that is through our fixed route bus service or our new projects and partnerships such as the Bay Street Innovation Corridor and Emerald Trail, we are creating a more regional agency that will connect all corners of Northeast Florida.”
In line with the Authority’s MOVE2027 Strategic Plan, the JTA will work to expand beyond traditional bus services to create a system that will integrate technology, pedestrian and bicycle safety to reduce congestion, increase ridership, and position the region as a transportation leader.
Ford and JTA Board Chair Debbie Buckland were also joined by Atlanta Beltline CEO Clyde Higgs, who spoke on his Atlanta Beltline experience and how it will relate to Jacksonville’s Emerald Trail project, a 30-mile trail and linear park connecting 14 neighborhoods to downtown Jacksonville. The Atlanta Beltline is a similar project that increased community pride and economic development.
“The JTA is proud to be a part of the Emerald Trail project, delivering five of the twelve segments of the trail. We will also partner with Groundwork Jacksonville and the City of Jacksonville in the remaining seven segments,” said Buckland. “This will help advance the JTA’s plans of a comprehensive mobility network in Northeast Florida.”
To read the MOVE2027 Strategic Plan in its entirety, visit https://www.jtafla.com/media/34fniggb/move2027.pdf. To learn more about the Emerald Trail, visit https://www.groundworkjacksonville.org/.
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About the Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA)
The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) is an independent state agency serving Jacksonville, Florida and Northeast Florida with multi-modal responsibilities. The JTA provides varied mass public transit services, and is a builder of roads, bridges and other infrastructure to enhance mobility in Jacksonville. Public transportation services include BRT and regular bus service, 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.