FDOT plans to build express lanes raise concerns with Jacksonville drivers

The FDOT says construction is scheduled to begin next spring. However, not everyone is on board with the idea.
 
From high in the skies, Action News Jax SkyVision shows how bad the traffic on I-295 can get.

FDOT spokesman Ron Tittle said express lanes could help alleviate the problem.
 
"The intent for the express lanes is to be a minimum speed of 45 mph," Tittle said.

We first told you last week how the I-295 express lanes will stretch from SR 9B to JTB.

"In the spring of 2016, we are anticipating starting the next express lanes project," Tittle said.

Councilman Tommy Hazouri was mayor in 1989 when he led the effort to eliminate tolls on Jacksonville bridges.

"We put the half-cent sales tax on the ballot. It passed and the tolls came tumbling down," Hazouri said.

Since then, Jacksonville has been free of tolls.

The express lanes project is expected to help with increased traffic when Ikea opens its doors in 2017. But Hazouri isn't so sure it will help.

"I think it's just going to be more aggravation and more traffic back logs," Hazouri said.

The FDOT remains firm, saying it's the better alternative.

"You have increased taxes, or you have user fees," Tittle said.
 
The FDOT will hold a public meeting around February to go over the construction plans.