Shands Bridge Project – SR23 (from East of CR 16A Spur to East of CR 209)

Our 6.5-Mile SR 23 – Shands Bridge Project is part of the new First Coast Outer Expressway, which is a by-pass around Jacksonville, FL. Our project is one of six FDOT contracts required to complete the SR 23 Beltway, which ties to I-10 west of Jax and to I-95 south of Jax.
The Shands Bridge crossing of the St. Johns River is the centerpiece of the SR 23 Beltway. The new bridge will accommodate 4 lanes of traffic but can be easily re-striped to 6 lanes. A Shared Use Path will be located on the north side of the bridge to allow pedestrian travel across the river.
The New Shands Bridge consist of 73 spans – 47 Bent Spans utilizing 60”-dia. Concrete Cylinder Piles and 26 Pier Spans utilizing 30”-sq. Concrete Piles and Waterline Footings. The new bridge will provide a 65’-0 Vertical Clearance at the Channel for increased marine traffic.
Upon opening of the New Shands Bridge the Existing Shands Bridge will be removed in its entirety except for 870’ at the east end and 675’ at the west end, which will remain as Fishing Piers for the local community.
Roadways on either side of the Shands Bridge consist of 20′-25’ high embankments, the removal of unsuitable materials, numerous ponds to excavate, MSE Walls, new drainage, asphalt pavement, and Toll Facilities. In addition, there are seven smaller bridges crossing local roads.