6. Exploring Jacksonville’s first dedicated urban bike path
In 1886, in order to connect the F&J to the Florida, Atlantic & Gulf Railroad, the Jacksonville Belt Railroad was constructed north of the city. Operated by Seaboard Air Line Railroad between 1900 and 1967, it became known as the S-Line. Abandoned during the 1980s, the 4.8-mile corridor was converted into Jacksonville’s first dedicated urban bike path as a part of the Rails-to-trails Conservancy’s Urban Pathways initiative in 2008.
Partners of the project included the City of Jacksonville Parks and Recreation Department, the Blue Foundation for a Healthy Florida and the Durkeeville Historical Society. Funding was provided by the Blue Foundation for a Healthy Florida and the Kresge Foundation. The goal was to create an linear urban park that could serve as a catalyst to improve the surrounding neighborhoods by connecting schools, parks and other community assets.
A trip down its route from Myrtle Avenue to Norwood Plaza/Gateway Town Center exposes an end user to a variety of Northside neighborhoods, districts and destinations while also providing some needed exercise. So if you’re tired of the gym or doing the same exercise routine, a trip down the S-Line Urban Greenway may be in order.