The Ultimate Guide on the Jacksonville Skyway: Downtown Jacksonville’s Elevated Transit System

The Jacksonville Skyway, often referred to as the Jacksonville Monorail or Jacksonville train system, is one of the city’s most unique forms of public transportation. Operated by the Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA), this elevated train glides above the streets of downtown, connecting business districts, cultural landmarks, and event venues in a clean, efficient, and futuristic way.

Whether you’re a commuter, a tourist, or just a curious local asking “What is Jacksonville’s train system called?” — this guide will give you everything you need to know about the JTA Skyway, including its routes, hours, stations, future plans, and how it connects to the heart of the city.

---

What Is the Jacksonville Skyway?

The Jacksonville Skyway is an automated monorail-style people mover system that operates in downtown Jacksonville, Florida. It’s a free public transportation option managed by JTA (Jacksonville Transportation Authority). Designed to reduce traffic congestion and improve connectivity between key areas of downtown, the Skyway offers a smooth, air-conditioned, and driverless ride high above the city streets.

It first opened in 1989, with continuous expansions through the 1990s and early 2000s. Today, the Skyway stretches 2.5 miles across the St. Johns River and features eight stations connecting both the Northbank and Southbank areas of Jacksonville.

---

How the Jacksonville Skyway Works

The Skyway operates on a fully automated system, meaning there are no onboard drivers. It runs on elevated guideways — concrete tracks that allow its rubber-tired cars to move quietly and efficiently. Each train consists of two cars, designed to hold around 50 passengers per car.

Unlike traditional rail systems, the Skyway is powered by electricity and guided by computers, offering an eco-friendly, reliable mode of transport. The system uses “automated people mover” (APM) technology, similar to those found in major airports.

---

Jacksonville Skyway Map and Stations

The Skyway currently has eight stations, spread across two main lines: the Northbank line and the Southbank line, connected by the Acosta Bridge over the St. Johns River.

Northbank Stations

1. Rosa Parks Transit Station – The main transfer hub for JTA buses and future transit routes.

2. James Weldon Johnson Park (formerly Hemming Plaza) – Near City Hall, the Main Library, and major downtown offices.

3. Central Station – Convenient access to downtown businesses and shopping.

4. Jefferson Station – Serves the west side of downtown, close to entertainment venues.

Southbank Stations

5. Riverplace Station – Access to the Riverwalk, hotels, and restaurants.

6. Kings Avenue Station – Near major office buildings and residential areas.

7. San Marco Station – Gateway to the historic San Marco district.

8. Convention Center Station – Adjacent to the Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center and nearby parking facilities.

Each station is well-marked and easily accessible by foot or connecting JTA bus routes, offering seamless integration with the rest of the city’s public transportation system.

---

Is the Jacksonville Skyway Free?

Yes — the Jacksonville Skyway is completely free to ride. Since 2012, JTA has offered fare-free service to encourage downtown connectivity, reduce parking congestion, and promote the use of public transit.

This makes it one of the most convenient and affordable ways to explore downtown Jacksonville, especially for those attending events, commuting between meetings, or simply enjoying the city’s riverfront views.

---

Jacksonville Skyway Hours of Operation

The Skyway’s operating schedule is designed primarily for weekday commuters but also supports special events downtown.

As of the latest JTA schedule:

• Monday–Friday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM

• Saturday–Sunday: The Skyway is closed on weekends, but it sometimes runs for special events, such as Jacksonville Jaguars home games, major concerts, or the Jacksonville Jazz Festival.

(See below for more on weekend service.)

---

Does the Jacksonville Skyway Run to the Jaguars Stadium?

One of the most common questions locals and visitors ask is: “Does the Jacksonville Skyway go to the Jaguars Stadium?”

The short answer: Not directly — but it can get you close.

Currently, the Skyway does not have a station located at EverBank Stadium (home of the Jacksonville Jaguars). However, you can ride the Skyway to the Central Station or Jefferson Station on the Northbank, then walk or transfer to a JTA shuttle bus that runs directly to the stadium area during major events.

In many cases, JTA operates special event shuttles from downtown parking garages and Skyway-connected stations to the stadium. This combination offers a convenient and stress-free alternative to stadium parking.

Future Plans

The JTA-U2C (Ultimate Urban Circulator) project — a planned modernization of the Skyway — aims to extend service to key areas including the Jaguars stadium and the surrounding Sports Complex. Once complete, riders will be able to travel from the Skyway to EverBank Stadium seamlessly using autonomous electric shuttles that bridge the current gap.

---

Does the Jacksonville Skyway Run on Weekends?

As of now, the Skyway does not operate on regular weekends (Saturday or Sunday). However, JTA does activate the Skyway on select weekends for major events, including:

• Jacksonville Jaguars home games

• River City Pride

• Jacksonville Jazz Festival

• Downtown Art Walks

• Florida-Georgia football weekend

During these events, the Skyway typically runs extended hours, allowing residents and visitors to travel conveniently without worrying about parking or traffic.

For real-time updates, JTA regularly posts Skyway weekend operation notices on their official website and social media channels.

---

Where to Catch the Jacksonville Skyway

The Skyway system has eight stations strategically placed throughout downtown. Here’s a closer look at each:

Each station is ADA accessible, equipped with elevators, and offers security monitoring for a safe and comfortable ride.

Accessibility and Amenities

All Skyway stations and trains are ADA-compliant, featuring elevators, ramps, and tactile paving for the visually impaired. The trains are climate-controlled, offering cool relief during Jacksonville’s hot summers.

Inside, passengers will find comfortable standing and seating areas, wide doors for easy access, and clear announcements for upcoming stations. Security cameras and JTA personnel also help maintain a safe environment.

---

The Future of the Jacksonville Skyway: The U2C Project

The JTA Ultimate Urban Circulator (U2C) project represents the next evolution of the Skyway system. Rather than dismantle the existing structure, JTA plans to upgrade and extend it using autonomous electric vehicles (AEVs) that can operate both on the elevated tracks and at street level.

Once complete, the U2C will connect the Skyway to neighborhoods like:

• Brooklyn

• Springfield

• The Sports and Entertainment District (including EverBank Stadium)

• Riverside

• San Marco

This transformation will create a modern urban mobility network, making Jacksonville one of the first U.S. cities to integrate autonomous vehicles into a downtown transit system.

---

Why Locals and Visitors Love the Jacksonville Skyway

For many residents and tourists, the Skyway is more than transportation — it’s a symbol of innovation, convenience, and community connectivity. Here’s why people continue to use and appreciate it:

• 🚗 Free transportation – You can ride anywhere downtown without paying a dime.

• 🌆 Scenic views – Stunning elevated views of the St. Johns River and downtown skyline.

• 🌎 Eco-friendly – The Skyway is fully electric, reducing emissions and traffic.

• 🏙️ Connects key destinations – Access to hotels, business centers, restaurants, and cultural venues.

• 🎟️ Event convenience – Skip the parking hassle during large downtown events.

---

Tips for Riding the Jacksonville Skyway

1. Plan Ahead: Check JTA’s official website for current operating hours and event schedules.

2. Combine with JTA Buses: The Rosa Parks Transit Station connects you to nearly every major JTA bus route.

3. Travel Light: Trains are compact, so keep large bags or strollers folded when possible.

4. Use It for Events: If attending a Jaguars game or concert, take advantage of special Skyway + shuttle combos.

5. Enjoy the Views: Sit near the front of the train for panoramic skyline scenes, especially when crossing the Acosta Bridge.

---

Fun Facts About the Jacksonville Skyway

• The Skyway is one of only three elevated monorail systems in the U.S. used for city transit (others include Miami’s Metromover and Detroit’s People Mover).

• Each Skyway car can travel up to 35 mph, though typical speeds are around 25 mph downtown.

• The system’s elevated bridges provide unique bird’s-eye views of the St. Johns River and downtown architecture.

• The Skyway once charged $0.35 fare before becoming completely free.

• More than 1.2 million riders have used the Skyway annually in recent years.

---

Jacksonville Skyway and Downtown Development

The Skyway plays an essential role in revitalizing downtown Jacksonville, promoting foot traffic, supporting small businesses, and connecting key attractions such as:

• VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena

• Jacksonville Main Library

• Museum of Science and History (MOSH)

• Southbank Riverwalk

• Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center

As more residents embrace urban living and downtown events increase, the Skyway continues to serve as a cornerstone of the city’s transit future.

---

⚖️ The Pros and Cons of Jacksonville’s Monorail System

💪 Pros

• Free, reliable downtown transportation

• Eco-friendly electric operation

• Safe and air-conditioned

• Great for sightseeing

• Connects major business and entertainment areas

👎 Cons

• Limited to downtown (doesn’t reach suburbs or airport)

• Weekday-only operation

• Older technology, needing upgrades

• Low overall ridership compared to city size

Still, as part of the JTA’s long-term mobility plan, the Skyway represents an important backbone for downtown transit — and the foundation for future innovations.

---

📍 FAQs About the Jacksonville Skyway

🟢 What is Jacksonville’s train system called?

It’s called the Jacksonville Skyway or JTA Skyway, operated by the Jacksonville Transportation Authority.

🟢 Is the Jacksonville Skyway free?

Yes! It’s completely free to ride — no tickets or passes required.

🟢 Where does the Jacksonville Skyway go?

It runs through downtown Jacksonville, connecting the Northbank (LaVilla, Convention Center, Rosa Parks) with the Southbank (San Marco, Riverplace, Kings Avenue) via the Acosta Bridge.

🟢 What are the hours of operation?

The Skyway operates Monday–Friday, 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Service is sometimes extended for special events.

🟢 Who operates the Skyway?

The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) owns and operates the system.

🟢 Can I bring my bike on the Skyway?

Yes, bikes are permitted on trains.

🟢 Is the Skyway safe and accessible?

Absolutely. Stations are equipped with elevators, security cameras, and emergency intercoms for rider safety.

Conclusion: The Future Is Elevated

The Jacksonville Skyway — or JTA Skyway, as it’s officially known — is more than just a monorail. It’s a symbol of Jacksonville’s growth, vision, and innovation. Whether you’re wondering “What is Jacksonville’s train system called?” or exploring how to get around downtown, the Skyway remains a free, scenic, and sustainable way to move through the city.

As the U2C project evolves and future expansions reach places like the Jaguars stadium and beyond, the Skyway is set to become a major part of Jacksonville’s identity — a modern urban circulator bridging the past, present, and future of city transit.

Lateef Warnick is the founder of Onassis Krown. He currently serves as a Senior Healthcare Consultant in the Jacksonville FL area and is a Certified Life Coach, Marriage Counselor, Keynote Speaker and Author of "Know Thyself," "The Golden Egg" and "Wear Your Krown." He is also a former Naval Officer, Licensed Financial Advisor, Insurance Agent, Realtor, Serial Entrepreneur and musical artist A.L.I.A.S.