FDOT listens to concerns about proposed toll on I-95 in Jacksonville

The Florida Department of Transportation spent time speaking with residents on Wednesday about a proposed express lane toll on I-95 in Jacksonville.

Two sets of Express Lanes are already under construction in Jacksonville. The first set on I-295 between the Buckman Bridge and I-95 is scheduled to open by the end of 2017.

The second on I-295 between State Road 9B and JTB is scheduled to open in mid-2019.

A third proposed toll on I-95 that would run from James Turner Butler Boulevard to Atlantic Boulevard attracted many residents to an open community forum on Wednesday.

FDOT held the public workshop ahead of a Project Development and Environment Study on the proposed express lanes.

"Didn’t sound good because we just got rid of them a few years ago," one resident said.

According to FDOT, use of the electronic toll lanes will be optional.

“People that want to stay in the general purpose lanes without paying a toll, can continue doing that," said Ron Tittle with FDOT.

The department said that the express lanes would provide another stream of revenue to work on road projects, but their main purpose would be to help combat congested traffic.

There is no current timetable for the third toll, but FDOT said once completed, the toll would be electronic and that there would be no toll booths.

The project may affect about 25 homes, according to FDOT.

Cox Media Group