Quote:Sounds like something easily remedied with better signage.   

The signage is completely clear. The problem is you have people who are familiar with the old configuration who don't bother paying attention to the signs, and they get confused when they're right up on the ramps.  We see the same thing with the new interchange at the Fuller Warren Bridge where I-10 dumps off into I-95, and then again at the interchange at I-95 and I-295 on the north and south end of the beltway. 

 

Drivers who don't frequent the area enough think they know where they're supposed to be, but in those instances, the configurations have been dramatically changed.  Fortunately, someone thought about this with the 10/95 interchange at the Fuller Warren where they added additional outlets for the old way of getting to 95 north if you get caught up in the south traffic. 

 

I think the completion of the beltway tied in with the Southside Connector and the new ramps on the Arlington Expressway were a stroke of genius.  It cuts travel time significantly for Arlington commuters in getting to and from the area, especially if you're on your way to or returning from the airport.  Before the beltway/Dames Point Bridge, drivers had to navigate through downtown or take the old 20th St. Expressway (MLK Blvd) to get up to 95. 

 

The state DOT has really tried to keep ahead of the growth, and for the arteries heading out to the beach, or heading north or south of town, it's a much easier commute than it was even 10 years ago.  I'm use the beltway to get just about anywhere worth going.  75 mph is much more my speed than the stop and go on roads like Southside Blvd.  The beltway gets bottled up during rush hour, but it's nowhere near as bad as other major cities. 

 

Oh, and another reason for the confusion is Jacksonville has arguably some of the worst drivers in the country.   I've driven in cities who claim otherwise.  There are some truly stupid people on the roadways here. 

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