The City of Jacksonville has committed $105.4 million to restore McCoys Creek to a natural waterway with stormwater management features that reduce flooding, improve water quality, add fish and wildlife habitat and create a more resilient ecosystem. Additional work will include recreational features along the creek, including parks, kayak launches, playgrounds, seating, creek overlooks and a paved trail that will connect McCoys Creek to the Emerald Trail.
Construction has been active on the project since 2021 and often involves multiple work sites all along the creek, from Leland Street to the Outfall at the St. Johns River and in 2026, work will begin at the headwaters of the creek, the Branches.
Project Construction Updates
January 16, 2026
The Outfall
In Fall 2025, the project reached a key milestone at the Outfall when the entire creek was finally connected and flowed through the newly built channel at the St. Johns River.
October 2025: The first piling is removed and two
waterways merge into the new channel.
December 2025: The new McCoys Creek channel at the Outfall and
ongoing site work, including utilities improvements.
A section of the Northbank Riverwalk was removed to facilitate construction and will be replaced. It is currently closed.
September 2024: Riverwalk removal
The Branches
In February 2026, creek restoration will begin on The Branches from Edison Avenue to Burke St. Pond and will include environmental remediation at Hollybrook Park. Once completed, The Branches will have approximately 4 acres of new space for future recreation and a freshwater stream with native trees, grass, vegetation and wetlands. The widened flood plain at these important headwaters provides capacity to hold and manage stormwater and improves water quality.
McCoys Creek Restoration: The Branches
Stockton Street Bridge
The Stockton Street Bridge is under construction and a new and elevated bridge with a bike lane and sidewalks is scheduled to reopen Spring 2026.
December 2025 – Stockton Street Bridge construction
Where is McCoys Creek located?
McCoys Creek is located west of downtown Jacksonville. The head of McCoys Creek is just west of Leland Street and then travels southeast through several neighborhoods, including Lackawanna, Mixon Town and Brooklyn as well as the Rail Yard District. The creek outfalls to the St. Johns River near the Acosta Bridge.
How will this project benefit the areas adjacent to McCoys Creek?
In addition to flood mitigation, the McCoys Creek Restoration will include:
- Trees and native plants
- Landscaping, lighting, and benches
- Picturesque green spaces
- Neighborhood sidewalks and trails
- Connections to the Emerald Trail
- Open views and access to McCoys Creek