News Summary
Jacksonville is advancing a $4.6 million incentive proposal for the Jacksonville Surf Park project in response to increased construction costs. The park, which will be the first of its kind in Florida, is projected to cost $100 million and occupy 5.5 acres within a 45-acre site in eTown. The project aims to create 100 jobs and enhance the local economy. A decision on the grant will be made by the Mayor’s Budget Review Committee on September 8 before city council approval.
Jacksonville is moving forward with a proposal to provide a $4.6 million incentive for the Jacksonville Surf Park project, aimed at supporting its development amid rising construction costs. The funding, proposed by the city’s Office of Economic Development (OED), comes as the developer, Aventuur Inc., has reported over 20% increases in original cost estimates due to findings from geotechnical studies, which have posed risks to the project’s viability.
The surf park is planned to occupy 5.5 acres within a larger 45-acre site located in the eTown development in South Jacksonville. The total estimated capital investment for the surf park is projected to reach $100 million and is set to become the first of its kind in Florida. The park is intended to provide a safe, controlled environment for surfers of all abilities, offering consistent, ocean-like surfing experiences.
The OED is specifically requesting a 10-year, 75% Recaptured Enhanced Value (REV) Grant, which amounts to a maximum of $4.6 million. A REV grant is a form of tax refund designed to support new developments or property enhancements by refunding a portion of the tax revenue generated from the project. The Mayor’s Budget Review Committee is scheduled to consider the grant proposal on September 8, after which it will be presented to the Jacksonville City Council for legislative approval.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
The Jacksonville Surf Park project is expected to have significant economic benefits. It is projected to create 100 new jobs with an average annual compensation of $50,000, not including benefits. Additionally, the construction phase of the project is anticipated to generate hundreds of temporary jobs, contributing to local employment and the economy.
Economists estimate that the surf park will yield a return on investment of $1.36 for every dollar spent, highlighting the potential financial benefits associated with the project. While specific challenges and issues related to the geotechnical study were not detailed in the OED memo, the rising construction costs necessitated this financial support to keep the project alive.
Project Timeline and Development Plans
Aventuur Inc. intends to integrate multifamily residential and retail spaces alongside the surf park, enhancing the overall development of the area. The land designated for the surf park was acquired by Aventuur in June 2025, with construction scheduled to commence in early 2026. The park is expected to open its doors to the public in early 2028.
The surf park site is strategically located southwest of the Florida 9B and Interstate 295 interchange and is a part of a master-planned development orchestrated by The PARC Group. This area was rezoned to Planned Unit Development (PUD) in February, clearing the way for new construction and additional amenities.
Commitment to Sustainability
Environmental sustainability is a core component of the surf park project. Plans include the use of native landscaping, the preservation of existing vegetation, and the incorporation of recycled materials during construction. This commitment aligns with growing trends in environmentally conscious design and development, which aims to benefit both the local community and the ecosystem.
Overall, the Jacksonville Surf Park is poised to attract surfing enthusiasts and enhance the local surfing scene for residents of Jacksonville. The proposed city incentive, coupled with the anticipated job creation and economic growth, marks a significant step forward in realizing this unique recreational project.
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Additional Resources
- News4Jax: Jacksonville Surf Park Developer Closes Deal
- Wikipedia: Surf Parks
- Jax Daily Record: Surf Park Developer Says Project in Jeopardy
- Google Search: Jacksonville Surf Park
- Surf Park Central: Surf Parks Gaining Momentum
- Google Scholar: Surf Parks
- Surfer: Florida’s $100 Million Wave Pool Approval
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Wave Pool
- News4Jax: Permit Review for Jacksonville Surf Park
- Google News: Jacksonville Surf Park
Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
