JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Jacksonville International Airport is reversing a parking policy that left many disabled veterans feeling frustrated.
For the last several months, only disabled veterans with the wheelchair on their tag were able to park for free in the nearby lots.
All other disabled veterans were able to park for free in the economy lots.
That change came last December when the airport began work on the construction of a third garage.
News4JAX spoke with local veterans after the initial changes, accusing the airport of moving them out of the lots to make more money.
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But the airport announced a change in that policy.
The Jacksonville Aviation Authority (JAA) has updated its policies regarding complimentary parking for Disabled Veterans.
Disabled Veterans with DV tags displaying the wheelchair symbol will receive free parking in the Hourly Garage, Daily Garage, Daily Surface Lot or Economy Lots.
Disabled Veterans with a vehicle displaying a “DV” license plate will receive free parking in the Daily Garage, Daily Surface Lot or Economy Lots.
This change is being made and will continually be evaluated and reconsidered as construction progresses. It is the desire of the Aviation Authority, consistent and even beyond what is required by law, to treat our veterans with the respect and reverence they deserve.
JAA Spokesperson
The airport is expanding access to all but the hourly garage to those with any “DV Tag.”
Jacksonville City Councilman Nick Howland spoke out against the changes at the time, but now, he says the change is a positive sign.
“I think it just goes to show the Jacksonville remains the most military and veteran-friendly community in the country and the airport is standing up behind it,” Howland said.
Howland posted on the social media platform X: “Nearly all free Disabled Veteran parking privileges will be restored at the airport imminently! DVs with the wheelchair symbol can continue to park for free anywhere.”
“DVs without it can park for free in the Economy Lots … and now also the Daily Garage and Daily Surface Lot! (Hourly Garage privileges will be restored to them when construction is complete.)"
Construction of the third parking garage is expected to be complete in June 2026.
