Governor Rick Scott today announced $763 million in funding for the Phase 3 of the First Coast Expressway project through the Florida Department of Transportation’s (FDOT) Work Program. This investment includes funding for the replacement of the Shands Bridge and extension of the First Coast Expressway to I-95 in St. Johns County and is the final phase of the $1.9 billion project. Last month, Governor Scott signed the Securing Florida’s Future budget which invests a record $10.1 billion in transportation infrastructure to keep up with Florida’s continued growth and booming economy. Since Governor Scott took office in 2011, investments in transportation have increased by $3.3 billion.
Governor Scott said, “By continuing to invest record amounts of funding in transportation in Florida, we are giving our job creators and families the infrastructure they need to grow and succeed. Today’s announcement will help bolster the job creation we are achieving across the state.”
The first phase of the expressway, from I-10 to Blanding Boulevard, is already under construction. Construction on the second phase, from Blanding Boulevard to the St. Johns River in Clay County, is set to begin early next year. When complete, the First Coast Expressway will cover 46 miles of limited-access roadway, extending from Interstate 10 to Interstate 95, offering motorists and commercial vehicles an alternative that bypasses downtown Jacksonville.
FDOT Secretary Mike Dew said, “Governor Scott recognizes that strategic investments in infrastructure drive strong economic growth, and projects like this one support continued prosperity and high quality of life for families and businesses in Northeast Florida and across our state. The Florida Department of Transportation is committed to enhancing safety, easing congestion and improving mobility for all of our citizens. Once complete, this bridge replacement and new roadway will connect communities and provide new and existing businesses with the infrastructure they need to thrive.”
