Bus riders can look forward to major upgrades at more than 100 bus stops across Northwest Jacksonville.

The Jacksonville Transportation Authority plans changes ranging from improved shelters and more lighting to bike racks and a real-time messaging system. The upgrades will “celebrate the identity of each neighborhood,” JTA said Friday. But the additions won’t come all at once. 

The first phase of improvements will focus on bringing 60 concrete bus pads, putting them into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Later they’ll be enlarged to fit upgraded amenities. That will happen by September, JTA said.

Over the next several years, JTA said, it will add other improvements with input from the communities. 

Michael Alonzo Brown, a frequent bus rider, told Jacksonville Today the upgrades will make stops safer for him and others. 

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“We’re an urban community; we do take the buses a lot. It just makes it more seen, more visible,” Brown said. “Also, [artwork and other upgrades] ward off more danger because it’s more visible. More eyes are looking at it.”

In total, 111 bus stops will be renovated, including 17 along Soutel Drive. According to a planning study from the University of North Florida, the initiative is estimated to produce a local economic benefit of $23.6 million.

“We’re excited to put shovels in the ground and get to work on the first of our MobilityWorks 2.0 projects,” said JTA CEO Nat Ford. “Beyond providing top-notch amenities to our patrons at these bus stops, we hope that by partnering with local small businesses and incorporating artscapes into the design, these bus stops will provide local economic benefits and become a part of the community identity.”