St. Johns County’s County Road 2209 opened Tuesday, Oct. 28, following a press conference and ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted by county officials.
The four-lane divided roadway connects International Golf Parkway to SilverLeaf Parkway, spanning three miles. The project aims to alleviate traffic frustrations and congestion in the rapidly expanding area.
St. Johns County District 2 Commissioner Sarah Arnold, Sheriff Rob Hardwick, School District Chief of Staff Paul Abbatinozzi, and Public Works Director Greg Caldwell all spoke at the event.
“By improving this critical intersection, we’re not only reducing congestion, we’re enhancing safety with upgraded signals, turn lanes, and better visibility,” Arnold said. “We’re also strengthening our entire transportation network so that residents can move safely, efficiently and confidently throughout our county.”
According to Hardwick, County Road 2209 will be immediately tested as Tocoi Creek High School lets out later this afternoon. A Friday night home football game will also bring traffic to the area, introducing drivers to the new road.
“What better timing … than to open this road right here to take those three miles of congestion out of SilverLeaf onto IGP as we continue to grow together,” Hardwick said.
Tocoi Creek High School adds considerable congestion to World Golf Village roads. It opened in 2021 and currently serves more than 2,700 students, with over 200 staff members.
County officials also mentioned plans for a new K-8 school off County Road 2209, which is expected to serve between 1,400 and 1,500 students.
That’s not the only sign of rampant growth in this part of St. Johns County.
Buc-ee’s, Costco, Bass Pro Shops and another Publix are just minutes away. Construction on a new Walmart Supercenter will soon begin across the street from the new roadway.
Chains including Chipotle, Chick-fil-A and Dutch Bros also have new locations planned nearby.
County officials thanked AWA Contracting Co. Inc., J.B. Coxwell Contracting Inc., Eisman & Russo Inc. and RS&H Inc. for their work on the project. They also acknowledged the county’s Utility Department for its contributions to the infrastructure supporting the new road.
“Together, we are building a safer, stronger, and more connected St. Johns County,” Arnold said before cutting the ribbon
