testing the new Shared Use Path

Last week, the new Shared Use Path opened at the Fuller Warren Bridge in Jacksonville. The path spans about a mile from point to point, stretching over the St. Johns River, alongside I95. Finally connecting Riverside to the San Marco areas of town, the SUP open a world of possibilities for runners, walkers, cyclists and commuters in the 904.

What Is The Fuller Warren Shared Use Path?

The Fuller Warren Shared Use Path is a multi-use bridge that links two parts of Jacksonville over the St. Johns River. It is about a mile long, and 12 feet wide. The path is bordered on one side by the interstate, and the river on the other, affording a beautiful view.

Parking For The SUP

There is parking at each end of the Shared Use Path. I opted for the Riverside Arts Market parking on the north bank of the river, just because I’m familiar with it. This lot will be inaccessible on Saturdays during the actual arts market, and during events. There is another lot under the Fuller Warren Overpass on the south bank. A woman with whom I stopped to chat told me there were lights for that lot as well. It’s worth noting you can use this lot for the North Bank Riverwalk as well.

Accessing the SUP

From the parking lot, the shared use path is super easy to access. Literally cross the street and you are there. On the north side is a steeper hairpin turn, while the south side is a more direct slope.

Who Can Use The SUP?

The Shared Use Path is open to runners, walkers, cyclists, dogs, and strollers. There is a yellow line to divide the two lanes, leaving plenty of room for the flow of traffic.

Pros + Cons

While I loved the experience, there were a few things to keep an eye on

• It’s noisy. Even without headphones or ear buds, you can’t hear anyone coming up behind you due to the sound of the traffic.
• The parking lots aren’t exceptionally busy. Again, it’s not a major thing, but it’s worth staying alert.
• The length of the bridge is only a mile. While that’s nothing to sneeze at, I had to go back and forth a few times to hit four miles.
• Wear eye protection – When I was heading north, I had to navigate some heavy dust blowing off a truck.
• There is no shade. Sun is nice, but this will be a grueling trek in the middle of the day on a bright summer day.

On the plus side

• The views are gorgeous! There are even little areas to pull off and take in the sights.
• It’s well-traveled. I arrived at 8:30 on a weekday morning and was never alone, nor was I uncomfortably crowded.
• While the distance is short, one can easily continue on through San Marco, or Riverside, or even continue to the Acosta Bridge.
• There are lots of great restaurants, cafes, and shops in the area, so it’s a wonderful place to visit and hang out.

The Verdict

This is great addition to the Jacksonville community and will do

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Do you have any Shared Use Paths in your area? Where’s your favorite place to run?