Willow Branch Canal

The City of Jacksonville (COJ) is spearheading the Willowbranch Canal Stabilization Project to address critical issues such as bank erosion, vegetation overgrowth, and streambank instability along the canal. COJ, as the primary client and facilitator, has engaged Halff Associates, Inc. and their team of consultants to manage the project. They are responsible for funding and overseeing the planning, design, permitting, and bidding phases while ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal regulations. This project is in line with the city's broader goals for environmental stewardship and infrastructure development.

The project focuses on restoring and stabilizing the canal through various design alternatives, such as natural stabilization techniques and reinforced embankments, using sustainable materials like native plants and natural stone. These measures aim to improve the canal’s ecological health, reduce flood risks, and enhance the recreational and aesthetic value of the area. Community engagement is central to the process, with public meetings and feedback sessions helping to ensure that the design reflects local preferences and needs.

In addition to canal restoration, the project will improve park features by adding new seating areas, upgrading pathways, expanding green spaces, and introducing safe pedestrian crossings to improve connectivity and accessibility. These enhancements are scheduled to begin in Fall 2024 and finish by Spring 2026, with a focus on sustainability, environmental benefits, and improved quality of life for the Riverside neighborhood.