Jacksonville Commute: Heckscher Drive Work and $1 JTA Fares Headlining Monday Traffic

Overview: Active Work Zones and Transit Savings

Jacksonville commuters can expect a relatively steady start to the work week this Monday, February 16, 2026. While major highways are currently moving at typical speeds, several active construction projects on the Northside and long-term improvements on the I-10 corridor require extra attention. Additionally, local transit users can continue to take advantage of significant fare reductions that went into effect earlier this month.

Major Roadworks and Traffic Alerts

Several key projects are impacting traffic flow across Duval County today. Drivers should be mindful of the following areas:

• Heckscher Drive (State Road A1A): Construction crews are entering their second week of work on the $5.6 million resurfacing and bike trail project. Work is focused on the stretch between Huguenot Memorial Park and the Fort George River Bridge. While FDOT has restricted lane closures during the peak morning window of 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. to help commuters, expect daytime crews and equipment to be active immediately following the morning rush.
• I-10 Widening Project: The multi-year expansion of I-10 between I-295 and I-95 is nearing its final phase, with an expected completion date of mid-2026. Commuters should prepare for narrowed lanes and shifting traffic patterns near the McDuff Avenue and Stockton Street interchanges. Exercise caution as barrier walls remain in close proximity to travel lanes.
• Main Street (US-17): Road construction continues on Main Street between Baisden Road and the Nassau River Bridge. This project is in its final stages, with work expected to conclude within the next two weeks, but localized delays remain possible during the day.
• Buckman Bridge Maintenance: Maintenance operations on the West Beltway (I-295) at the Buckman Bridge are ongoing. While all lanes are generally open for the morning commute, drivers may encounter service vehicles on the shoulders performing routine inspections and repairs.
• Emerson Street (SR-126): Long-term roadwork persists on Emerson Street from Phillips Highway (US-1) to Spring Park Road. Commuters in the Southside area should account for reduced speeds in this construction zone.

Public Transport and JTA Updates

For those opting for public transit today, the Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) has several active programs aimed at making the commute more affordable and efficient:

• $1 Fare Pilot Program: Today marks the third week of the JTA’s six-month fare reduction pilot. All fixed-route bus fares are currently reduced to $1, providing a cost-effective alternative to driving.
• Free NAVI Shuttles: The autonomous NAVI shuttles operating in the Downtown area are currently free for all passengers. These shuttles provide a convenient link for those parking on the periphery of the central business district.
• Schedule Reminders: Commuters on Routes 8, 10, 18, and 28 are reminded to check their updated schedules via the My JTA app, as running time adjustments implemented last month remain in effect to improve reliability.

As always, commuters are encouraged to stay alert, avoid distractions in work zones, and move over for construction and emergency vehicles working along the roadside.