JTA Awarded grant for transit-oriented development planning in Northwest Jacksonville

Credit: Jacksonville Transportation Authority

The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) has announced that it has secured a $1.5 million grant, including a $300,000 local match, from the Federal Transit Administration’s (FTA0) FY 2023 Pilot Program for Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) Planning. This funding is part of a broader $17.6 million initiative by the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) to promote transit-oriented development across the country.

The grant will facilitate a comprehensive TOD study focusing on sustainable urban development in Northwest Jacksonville, particularly along JTA’s Bus Rapid Transit service, known as the First Coast Flier Green Line corridor. The study aims to create vibrant communities where housing, commerce and essential services are easily accessible by public transit.

“We are incredibly grateful for this grant, which will help us enhance the quality of life for our residents through improved mobility and access,” said JTA Board Chairwoman Debbie Buckland. “Through JTA’s TOD initiatives, we’re working hard to create a better, more liveable city.”

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The study, developed with robust community input, will prioritise economic development opportunities and increased transit ridership within the corridor. By identifying critical infrastructure needs, the project encourages private sector developers to invest in transit-oriented projects that align with the community’s vision.

“This grant follows up on our recent award of $6 million in community project funding and proves the JTA’s strength in competing for federal grants,” said JTA CEO Nathaniel P. Ford Sr. “Transit-oriented development is our strategy to build more connected, live, work, and play communities for the citizens of Jacksonville. The best way to make this goal a reality is to take the initiative and make it easier for developers by providing them with a comprehensive plan.”

Since 2013, JTA has secured a total of $355 million in state and federal grants, which are being strategically invested to improve mobility and vital infrastructure projects across Jacksonville.