On Sept. 5, 2000, residents across Jacksonville turned out at the polls to approve The Better Jacksonville Plan (BJP) as a blueprint for Jacksonville's future.

The BJP is a $2.25 billion comprehensive growth management strategy that provides road and infrastructure improvements, environmental preservation, targeted economic development, and new and improved public facilities.  It is codified as Section 761 of Jacksonville's Code of Ordinances.

The Plan is funded through a half-penny sales tax and by leveraging existing revenue sources.  Most of the projects included in the BJP are expected to be complete by 2010.  The half-penny sales tax will sunset no later than 2030.