Major Gridlock on I-95 Northbound and Buckman Bridge; JTA Alerts in Effect

Commuter Alert: Major Incidents on I-95 and Buckman Bridge

Jacksonville commuters are facing a challenging Wednesday morning as two major traffic incidents have snarled traffic on key arteries. As of early this morning, January 28, 2026, a significant backup is reported on I-95 Northbound near the Florida-Georgia state line. This follows an emergency incident where a passenger reportedly exited a moving vehicle, necessitating the closure of all northbound lanes for over an hour. While lanes are beginning to reopen, residual delays are stretching back several miles, and drivers are advised to seek alternative routes such as US-17 if heading toward Georgia.

On the south side, traffic is heavily congested on the Buckman Bridge following a crash with injuries. Authorities have been on the scene managing the two left southbound lanes, which were temporarily blocked. Though some movement has resumed, the ripple effect is causing slow-downs for those traveling from Orange Park toward Mandarin. Commuters should expect at least an extra 20 to 30 minutes of travel time in this area.

Ongoing Roadworks and Construction Closures

Several local construction projects are impacting surface streets and highway ramps today. Drivers should plan for the following disruptions:

• I-295 Clockwise: The entry ramp from Normandy Blvd (Exit 19) is closed due to scheduled construction work. Detours are in place, directing traffic toward the nearest available interchanges.
• San Marco & Riverside: Riviera Street is closed westbound from Belmonte Avenue to River Road. Additionally, weight limits are being strictly enforced on several side streets in the area due to aging infrastructure and active maintenance.
• North Jacksonville: Broward Road is closed in both directions between Biscayne Boulevard and Pinehurst Drive. Furthermore, Walburg Street remains inaccessible between Mill Street and Hammock Court.
• CR-220A (Old Jennings Rd): Commuters in the Clay-Duval border area will encounter intermittent lane closures as crews continue work to modify the road layout near Blanding Boulevard.

JTA Transit Updates and Cold Weather Services

The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) has officially rolled out its latest round of service enhancements. Riders on Routes 8, 10, 18, and 28 should check their new schedules as running time adjustments took effect earlier this week. New paper schedules are available at the JRTC at LaVilla and onboard most fixed-route buses.

Crucially, due to the current freezing temperatures gripping the region, JTA is operating under its Warming Center Contingency Plan. Any resident needing to reach the city’s designated warming center at the Legends Center on Soutel Drive can ride any JTA fixed-route bus for free. Simply inform the driver that you are heading to a warming center to receive the complimentary fare. This service will remain in effect through Friday, January 30.

Weather Impacts on Road Conditions

With a morning freeze warning in place and temperatures dipping into the 20s, motorists are reminded to watch for potential frost or black ice on elevated surfaces and bridges. Ensure your windshields are fully cleared before starting your commute, as visibility and sudden braking on cold pavement can be hazardous this morning.