On August 28, 2025, Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan announced “Express Lane Permitting,” a new accelerated review process for construction projects in the city.
Speaking at a press conference at Atlantic North shopping center in East Arlington, Mayor Deegan said the goal is to dramatically reduce permitting timelines, with Express Lane projects targeted to complete review in under 30 days—down from review cycles that have historically run for months. The first pilot project, a McDonald’s location near Beach and Kernan boulevards, completed civil review in 15 days and building permit review in 18 days.
The city’s Public Works Department, led by Director Nina Sickler, will continue piloting the program before formalizing it through legislation. Sickler also confirmed Jacksonville’s intent to integrate artificial intelligence into the permitting workflow, partnering with Swiftbuild.ai and its SwiftGov platform to power the next phase.
“AI will deliver faster, more accurate and clear reviews.”
