New JTA Bus Lanes and Queue Jumps in Downtown

JTA Unveils New Bus Lanes and Queue Jumps in Downtown Jacksonville and the Southbank. Here's a look at what this means for you.

Published March 1, 2016 in Transportation - MetroJacksonville.com

As part of the Jacksonville Transportation Authority’s (JTA) First Coast FlyerTM (Bus Rapid Transit) downtown enhancement project, new bus-only lanes have been added along Bay, Jefferson, Broad and Forsyth Streets in Downtown and Kings Avenue on the Southbank. In addition, a queue jump was placed on Forsyth Street.

A queue jump provides preference to buses at intersections. It consists of an additional travel lane and special traffic light on the approach to a signalized intersection. This lane is often restricted to transit vehicles (buses) only. When a bus is ready to depart the First Coast Flyer Station on Forsyth Street, it will trigger the light on Forsyth and Madison to turn red, stopping commuter traffic. This will allow the bus to “jump” ahead of traffic.

“The new dedicated bus lanes and queue jump technology will speed up our system and make a significant difference for the thousands of commuters who rely on JTA every day,” said JTA CEO Nathaniel P. Ford Sr. “It’s an affirmation of our ongoing commitment to bring Northeast Florida residents a world class transportation system with fast and reliable mobility choices.”

These infrastructure improvements will provide seamless and frequent travel for the Flyer and regular bus service. Cars and trucks turning right during peak hours may use the curbside bus lane as well as bicyclists. Since the concept is new to downtown, below are a few tips to assist commuters when traveling in the area:

o The far right lane is designated for buses only during peak hours.

o Vehicles must not travel in bus-only lanes during weekday peak hours (6 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.)

o Drivers should exercise caution when using the bus lane to make right turns

o Bus lanes can be utilized anytime by emergency vehicles, bicycles and school buses

o Commuters must yield to buses at all times when entering or crossing a bus lane

For additional information, please contact the JTA’s customer service line at (904) 630-3100; TDD (904) 630-3191 or visit www.jtafla.com.

This article can be found at: http://dev.metrojacksonville.com/article/2016-mar-new-jta-bus-lanes-and-queue-jumps-in-downtown