Jacksonville Proposes University Boulevard Redesign
Officials are reviewing four design options to improve pedestrian and cyclist safety along the corridor.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Home Renovation
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The Jacksonville Transportation Authority and the City of Jacksonville are evaluating a multimillion-dollar plan to overhaul University Boulevard. The project aims to enhance safety between the Arlington Expressway and the Merrill Road roundabout.
Why it matters
The proposed redesign addresses long-standing safety concerns for pedestrians and cyclists navigating the busy corridor. Officials are currently reviewing four distinct configurations to balance traffic flow with non-motorized access.
The proposed construction project is estimated to cost between $32 million and $34 million. Plans include a 10-foot shared-use path on both sides of Arlington Road and optional six-foot sidewalks.
The players
Jacksonville Transportation Authority
This agency manages public transportation services and transit infrastructure development throughout the Jacksonville region.
City of Jacksonville
This local government body is responsible for urban planning, infrastructure maintenance, and public safety initiatives in the city.
The details
The design team presented four options, ranging from maintaining the current five-lane setup to reducing sections to three lanes. Two of the proposed designs feature new roundabouts to manage traffic, with the fourth option currently favored by the public.
Timeline
October 14, 2026: Public workshop held to gather input on redesign concepts.
Early 2027: Construction is expected to begin.
Culture Shift
This project reflects a broader move toward complete streets that prioritize active transportation over high-capacity vehicular throughput. It aligns with national shifts aimed at reducing car dependency in favor of walkable infrastructure.
Residents should anticipate long-term changes to traffic patterns and road accessibility between the Arlington Expressway and Merrill Road. Local commuters will eventually experience shifted lane configurations once the chosen construction plan is finalized and implemented.
The takeaway
The move toward a multi-lane reduction highlights a priority shift from pure vehicular speed to pedestrian integration. Residents should participate in future city workshops to ensure the final design aligns with community transit needs.
What happens next
Construction is projected to begin in early 2027.
Further reading
For more updates on local improvements, visit the Home Renovation section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by News 4 Jax.
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Do you believe replacing traditional intersections with roundabouts improves traffic safety in your community?
