Florida-Georgia game: Park-and-ride lots, shuttles available for fans

It’s one of the biggest weeks of the year as Florida Gators and Georgia Bulldogs fans take over downtown Jacksonville.

But if you’re not prepared on where to go or how to get there, it could be a major headache.

Fans need to be aware of traffic patterns and road closures ahead of time.

The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office is encouraging people to leave the house with time. JSO can’t stress enough to make sure you have your tickets ready and parking passes and show them to law enforcement who can help guide you.

Henry Hinojosa is a diehard Georgia fan who’s set up at RV City near EverBank Field. This is the fifth year he’s attended with his whole family.

“We show up here year and we meet up with old friends. Just have a good time, win lose or draw, Dawg fan for life,” Hinojosa said.

But if you’re not riding in an RV, there are many ways to get to EverBank Field and some don’t require a car at all.

The Jacksonville Transportation Authority is providing transportation starting with the game day express shuttle.

“Game day express will begin 3 hours prior to kick off. We will start that at 12:30 and we will operate it for one after the game ends,” JTA public relations manager Leigh Ann Rassler said.

There are five park-and-ride lots throughout Jacksonville where you can hop on the game day express. The skyway hours will also be extended.

“Friday evening on the Skyway, we're going to run it until 1 a.m. and on Saturday it will be open from 9 a.m. until midnight,” Rassler said.

Starting Thursday at 8 a.m. until 11 p.m. Sunday, Hogan Street from Water Street to the St. Johns River will be closed; the same goes for Pearl Street.

“We offer a shuttle-only service from The Landing that picks up at Bay and Hogan,” Rassler said.

If you’re planning on driving and parking at the stadium, JSO said to get downtown at least 5 hours before kickoff. Otherwise, pack your patience and be prepared to wait.

Cox Media Group