SUN Trail in St. Johns County
The SUN (Shared-Use Nonmotorized) Trail in St. Johns County is part of a larger, coordinated regional effort to develop a continuous, multi-use trail network across Northeast Florida. This regional loop trail is anticipated to be the longest of its kind in the southeastern United States, totaling approximately 260 miles upon completion.
Within this system, nearly 40 miles of trail are planned in St. Johns County, including segments within the City of St. Augustine and the City of St. Augustine Beach. This places the County as a key connection point within the broader regional network.
The trail system connects to major statewide and national networks, including the East Coast Greenway and the Coast to Coast Trail, supporting both regional and long-distance connectivity for walking, biking, and other nonmotorized uses.
Project Overview
The SUN Trail network in St. Johns County has been developed through a long-term, multi-agency planning process involving local governments, regional partners, and the Florida Department of Transportation.
Five Primary Segments
- Vermont Boulevard to CR 214
- Allen Nease Road to Prairie Lakes Drive (including a planned pedestrian bridge crossing)
- Prairie Lakes Drive to Holmes Boulevard
- West King Street from Holmes Boulevard to US 1
- Pope Road to A1A (Beach Boulevard)
Current outreach and design discussions are focused on the Pope Road to A1A (Beach Boulevard) segment.
Regional Trail System
The regional loop trail spans five counties in Northeast Florida:
St. Johns County, Flagler County, Volusia County, Brevard County, and Putnam County.
This effort has been carried out across multiple jurisdictions and transportation districts, reflecting a coordinated approach to building a connected trail system that supports mobility, recreation, and access across the region.
The project is part of Florida’s SUN Trail Program, which was established to fund the development of regionally significant, nonmotorized transportation corridors.
Planning Study
A comprehensive planning study was completed to evaluate potential trail alignments, design considerations, and community impacts within St. Johns County.
Study Focus
- Identifying feasible trail routes and design types
- Supporting coordination between St. Johns County, the City of St. Augustine, and the City of St. Augustine Beach
- Positioning the project to compete for state funding through the SUN Trail Program
- Incorporating public input through a structured public involvement process
A full planning study document will be made available on this page once it has been updated to meet ADA accessibility standards.
Project Timeline
This project has been in development for many years and reflects ongoing coordination and public decision-making at the local and regional levels.
Key Milestones
- 2008: Initial multi-county coordination established through a memorandum of understanding
- 2017–2018: Planning study funding and consultant selection approved
- 2019: Preferred trail alignment formally adopted by St. Johns County and partner cities
- 2024: Design funding agreements approved for multiple segments, including Beach Boulevard
Current Status
Segments of the SUN Trail within St. Johns County are in various stages of development, including planning, design, and future funding consideration.
All segments are currently in design and permitting.
Community Engagement and Information
St. Johns County has hosted public meetings and open house events to share project information, answer questions, and gather community input throughout the planning and design process.
As the project continues to move forward, updates will be shared here to provide accurate, up-to-date information for residents, businesses, and stakeholders.
Past Public Meetings:
- July 11, 2019 – Solomon Calhoun Center
- October 24, 2019 – Solomon Calhoun Center
- February 26, 2026 – Anastasia Island Public Library
Purpose and Benefits
SUN Trail Intention
- Expand safe, connected options for walking and biking
- Improve access between neighborhoods, parks, and local destinations
- Support regional connectivity across Northeast Florida
- Enhance recreational opportunities for residents and visitors
This project reflects a long-term investment in infrastructure that balances mobility, environmental stewardship, and community character.