Traffic is an issue in just about any city, and the thriving St. Augustine area is a prime example. St. Johns County has done something about it by opening a new 3.9-mile segment of County Road 2209 connecting Silverleaf Parkway to International Golf Parkway.

Partnering with the Florida Department of Transportation, the $41 million portion of County Road 2209 creates a four-lane divided corridor designed to improve traffic flow in the northern part of the county.

“By improving this critical intersection, we’re not only reducing congestion, we’re enhancing safety with upgraded signals, turn lanes and better visibility,” County Commissioner Sarah Arnold said during an Oct. 21 ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The entire County Road 2209 Central Project will eventually span 7.7 miles from County Road 210 to Florida 16. Construction began in spring 2024 and is expected to be fully completed by summer 2026. In addition to easing congestion on nearby roads, it is expected to reduce dependence on Interstate 95.

“It’s going to change the transportation network for the northwest portion of St. Johns County,” county Public Works Director Greg Caldwell said.

Sheriff Robert Hardwick also noted the benefit to schools, students, parents and staff.

“We sat here together with a vision going ‘How are we going to relieve one of the biggest high schools in St. Johns County — 2,700 students in addition to almost 300 staff,'” Hardwick said referring to Tocoi Creek High School. “You’re going to see that being tested this afternoon as that school actually empties. … Just to my left and to your right down that dirt road is a brand-new K-through-8 school that’s going to open, what better timing … than to open this road right here to take those 3 miles of congestion out of Silverleaf onto IGP as we continue to grow together.”

Drivers are encouraged to stay alert and follow the new traffic patterns in the area. Families should use caution when dropping off and picking up students, as several schools are located near this new segment.

This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: Segment of County Road 2209 opens to improve St. Johns County traffic