Located on Jacksonville’s Southbank is the locally governed, not-for-profit Baptist Medical Center, a campus featuring Baptist Internal and Family Medicine facilities, the Borowy Family Children’s Critical Care Tower, and the Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Center. As one of Jacksonville’s most preferred health systems, the infrastructure surrounding the facility needs to be strong. However, the existing segment of Palm Avenue adjacent to the medical complex was an older roadway with deteriorating asphalt and minimal accommodations for pedestrians and cyclists. As a result, the City of Jacksonville and Baptist Health partnered on the Palm Avenue Reconstruction project.
The Palm Avenue Reconstruction project included the construction of a safer 4-lane divided roadway, four signalized intersections, sidewalks, a 12’-wide shared-use path, a closed storm- drain collection system, and lighting. In addition, the project included extensive landscaping and hardscaping, which was coordinated with the design of the adjacent Baptist Medical Center improvements.
ETM played a pivotal role in the design and permitting of this project, which encompassed the design of four signalized intersection and a closed storm-drain collection system, Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE), landscaping, hardscaping, and lighting.
Recognizing the high volume of pedestrian traffic in the area, ETM implemented innovative traffic calming measures by incorporating raised intersections. These raised intersections not only enhance safety, but also effectively mitigate traffic speed, promoting a more pedestrian-friendly environment.
To ensure uninterrupted access for both vehicles and pedestrians throughout all phases of construction, ETM developed a phased temporary traffic control plan. This plan meticulously outlined the necessary measures and protocols to maintain a smooth flow of traffic and ensure the safety of all stakeholders.
Furthermore, ETM secured permits from the City of Jacksonville, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), and the St. Johns River Water Management District (SJRWMD).
