LIVING IN JACKSONVILLE, FL -JACKONVILLE REAL ESTATE

9 Things to Know About the First Coast Expressway, Nocatee Hub & Clay County Growth in 2026

Northeast Florida just crossed two big milestones. The First Coast Expressway is finally complete through Clay County, and Nocatee just announced a brand-new outdoor retail hub. Both are about to change where people choose to live, and both matter if you're thinking about buying in 2026.

As a local relocation and new construction specialist, here's what you need to know before you decide where to buy.

1. The First Coast Expressway Is Now Fully Open in Clay County

On June 29, 2026, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) opened the final Clay County segment of the First Coast Expressway (SR 23). The new stretch runs from US 17, just south of Green Cove Springs, to Leonard C. Taylor Parkway, near the Shands Bridge.

Quick tip: This is an all-electronic toll road. There are no toll booths, just cameras and a bill or SunPass transponder.

2. A New, Free Shands Bridge Is Coming Too

The First Coast Expressway is toll, but a second, separate crossing is planned: a new Shands Bridge over the St. Johns River. It's expected to be free to drive on, with completion targeted around 2030.

Between the two, Green Cove Springs is about to get a lot more connected to Jacksonville.

3. Nocatee Just Announced "The Hub at Nocatee"

Nocatee is adding a brand-new outdoor retail and dining district, The Hub at Nocatee, set to open in 2028. Expect:

Walkable shops and restaurants

Open green space for live music and events

A similar feel to The Hub at Bexley, the same developer's project near Tampa

Businesses interested in the space can find leasing details here.

This is also part of a bigger trend inside Nocatee: more luxury multifamily housing built close to walkable retail, instead of everything being spread out.

4. Green Cove Springs Is Northeast Florida's Newest Growth Area

With the expressway complete and land still more affordable than St. Johns County, Green Cove Springs is quickly becoming one of the fastest-growing areas in the region. New homes here are starting in the high $200s, well below what you'd typically find closer to Nocatee or Ponte Vedra.

It's also close to Naval Air Station (NAS) Jacksonville, so it's become a popular choice for military families looking for a shorter commute.

5. Several New Communities Are Opening in Clay County

Laurelton – A new master-planned community, with builders including David Weekley Homes and Richmond American Homes.

Trail Ridge Estates & Oakwood Estates – More budget-friendly new construction options.

Saratoga Springs (Agrihood) – Built around a working farm concept instead of a golf course or clubhouse.

Granary Park – A new Lennar community, often paired with builder financing incentives.

The Rookery – A new D.R. Horton community.

Hyland Trail (Lake Asbury) – Part of a large master plan expected to bring roughly 3,000 homes to the Lake Asbury area over time.

6. Watch Out for Lot Premiums on New Construction

Builders advertise a base price, but many homesites carry a lot premium on top of it, based on size, shape, or location. Always ask what the lot premium is before comparing a builder's advertised price to the final price you'd actually pay.

7. Clay County's Long-Term Plans Are Worth a Look

Two master plans are shaping where Clay County grows next: the Branan Field master plan and the Lake Asbury master plan. Both lay out where future roads, schools, and commercial space are headed.

Buyers who want a longer view can also check Clay County's Future Land Use Map and Comprehensive Plan to see how nearby land is zoned.

8. Clay County Schools Are Strong, Just Not #1

Based on 2026 state (FAST) testing results, St. Johns County ranked #1 in Florida, and Nassau County ranked #2. Clay County earned an overall "A" and scored above the state average, solid, just a step behind its two neighbors.

You can look up your specific school's score here.

9. Rivertown Is Adding New Retail Too

Just across the Shands Bridge from Green Cove Springs, Rivertown is bringing in new commercial development along Longleaf Pine Parkway, giving that side of the river more shopping and dining options of its own.

Is Now the Right Time to Buy in Clay County or Nocatee?

It's a good fit if you want:

Newer construction at a lower price point than St. Johns County

A shorter commute to Jacksonville or NAS Jacksonville

To get in early on a growing area before prices catch up

It may not be the right fit if you're specifically set on:

Established, built-out neighborhoods with mature landscaping

Being inside "the bubble" of an already-finished master-planned community like Nocatee

FAQs

Thinking About Making a Move?

Whether you're building new or buying existing, I represent buyers through the entire process at no cost to you. The builder or seller pays my commission, so it doesn't raise your price. You get an advocate who knows these communities, these builders, and the inspections that protect you.

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LET'S TALK ABOUT YOUR MOVE

Call/Text: (904) 599-2125

Email: greg@livinginjacksonvillefl.com

Website: https://www.livinginjacksonvillefl.com/

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About the Author

Greg DeTullio is a Florida-licensed Real Estate Broker and the founder of the Living in Jacksonville FL Team. With a decade of industry expertise, he has successfully managed over 200 closed transactions and earned five-star Google reviews. Greg specializes in Jacksonville relocation services and new construction within St. Johns County, proudly serving Nocatee, SilverLeaf, RiverTown, St. Johns, EverRange, Ponte Vedra Beach, and the surrounding Northeast Florida communities.