JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — It is a project that began in 2016 and cost $171 million: This weekend, the latest express lanes on the I-295 East beltway from 9B to JTB are set to open.
As Jacksonville has grown, so has the traffic. That growth can especially be felt on the I-295 beltway.
The new express lanes, also called managed lanes, stretch from SR-9B to J. Turner Butler Blvd.
There are two things to be aware of as you navigate the lanes. First, if you use the 295 SB express lanes, for now, you will have to exit at SR-9B. The portion that keeps drivers on 295 past SR-9B won’t be done for another three to six months.
Second, if you use 295 NB express lanes, at the JTB exit you will encounter three different options.
"You can go west on JTB or east on JTB using this direct connection ramp here, or you can continue on 295 North and continue on to your destination," explained Hampton Ray with FDOT.
Ray said the project went longer than originally planned because FDOT decided to add an additional general use lane for the public.
"The additional general use lane opened in 2019. So now you have three general use lanes and two express lanes or managed lanes," Ray said.
The express lanes will be tolled during the high traffic times of 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. Outside of those times, drivers can use the lanes for free.
Prices will be posted up on the signs as you approach. To use the lanes, you must purchase a SunPass, E-ZPass or a Peach Pass. Toll violators will be charged a $25 fine.