what’s new in Jacksonville? – march 2014

JAX Chamber International PlazaJAX Chamber International Plazaconstruction is underway on the JAX Chamber’s International Plaza. The public space will feature flags from 20 countries whose businesses have a presence in Jacksonville. International Plaza is a part of the JAX Chamber’s $2.1 million “Downtown’s New Front Door” redesign, which was initially announced in 2011. The redesign included the renovation of the Chamber’s interior and exterior facade and the creation of a new sustainable parking area.

Southbank Riverwalk Phase one of the reconstruction of the Southbank Riverwalk is underway. Phase one involves the demolition of the former Jacksonville Maritime Museum and Jacksonville History Center buildings.

Jessie Ball duPont Center The Jessie Ball duPont Center will be developed within the iconic Haydon Burns Library building that was completed in 1965. The 120,000 square foot building will act as a hub for local nonprofits, stimulating an environment of collaboration within the sector. The $20-million-dollar plan calls for the structure’s precast concrete fins, glazed brick mural, and mosaic tiles to be repaired and restored to original condition. The four-level facility will include retail, conference/meeting spaces, a green roof, and an outdoor patio/terrace area at the intersection of Ocean and Adams Streets.

Engine 15 Brewing Engine 15 Brewing recently purchased two historic warehouses at 601 and 633 Myrtle Avenue for a new brewery, tap room, outdoor beer garden and cannery. The new brewery will increase Engine 15’s annual production from 1,000 barrels to 10,000 barrels. The brewery is expected to open in three months.

Sargent Cycle Products Sargent’s Cycle Products is expanding it’s business in Springfield. They’re located at 1036 Hubbard Street and are a major supplier for custom motorcycle products in North America. Work on a two-story space that will more than double their capacity has begun on Hubbard. The project is anticipated for completion in May.

Julius Guinyard Park & Pool Renovation work is underway on the City of Jacksonville’s Julius Guinyard Swimming Pool on Jefferson Street, in the neighborhood formerly known as Sugar Hill. Constructed in 1951, the swimming pool was originally called “Blodgett Homes Pool” and is one of the oldest public pools in the City of Jacksonville. In 2006, the park was renamed after Mr. Julius Guinyard, a former City Parks employee.

Hendricks Plaza
Rettner Hendricks Realty LLC is investing $300,000 in façade renovations to 1620-1636 Hendricks Avenue. The project is now being referred to as Hendricks Plaza. The development’s anchor tenant will be a restaurant.