The project is being managed by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT). The work is being carried out for the First Coast Expressway (SR 23) from east of the CR 16A spur to east of the CR 209.
WGI is handling the design-related services and construction administration tasks for the project. Meanwhile, the construction is being handled by Johnson Brothers Corporation and American Bridge. The project includes the extension of the First Coast Expressway as well as building the new Shands Bridge.
The new four-lane bridge spanning the St Johns River will also include facilities for cyclists and pedestrians. The existing Shands Bridge had to be replaced as it was nearing the end of its working life and has been proving unable to cope with traffic demand as well as being uneconomic to repair and upgrade.
The First Coast Expressway (FCE, SR 23) is a multi-lane, limited access toll road. Once complete, the expressway will cross parts of Duval, Clay and St Johns counties. Expressway traffic will pass through electronic toll gantries without stopping.
