News Summary
Jacksonville is poised for a transformation with the Shipyards project, which includes the construction of a new marina, a major renovation of the Jaguars’ stadium, and new dining options. The marina will feature 78 boat slips, while the stadium renovations are projected to enhance the game-day experience. Additionally, the project includes retail outlets and plans for new hotels, signaling a revitalization effort in downtown Jacksonville.
Jacksonville is set to undergo a significant transformation as the Shipyards project moves forward, with construction activities beginning on the marina and major renovations planned for the Jacksonville Jaguars’ home stadium. The project encompasses multiple developments aimed at revitalizing the downtown area and enhancing the waterfront experience.
Demolition work is expected to commence at the Jacksonville Shipyards marina following the issuance of a city permit in early September. The marina project, estimated to cost $2 million, will involve the demolition of existing structures and the replacement of the dock. Once completed, the new marina will feature 78 slips for vessels ranging from 30 to 400 feet in length, in addition to two water taxi slips.
Simultaneously, the Jacksonville Jaguars are initiating a major renovation of their home field, known as the “Stadium of the Future.” A permit was issued on September 11 for this $532.14 million project, which will include the removal of bowl seating, electrical and plumbing work, and upgrades to the mechanical infrastructure. The renovation is designed to allow for uninterrupted home games throughout the current season. Overall, the total cost for the stadium renovation is projected at $1.4 billion, with plans for completion anticipated before the start of the 2028 NFL season.
In addition to the stadium renovations, construction is progressing on One Shipyards Place, a six-story office building intended to serve as the Jaguars’ headquarters. This project has an expected completion date in the first quarter of 2026. The combined cost for One Shipyards Place and an adjacent hotel is approximately $254.3 million, which may rise towards $260 million once the marina support building is included.
In a further move towards modernization, the Jacksonville Transportation Authority launched an autonomous passenger service along the Bay Street Innovation Corridor in June 2025. Initially operated by human attendants, the free service will start charging a fee of $1.75 beginning October 1.
On the retail side of development, new dining and retail options are on the horizon in Jacksonville. At 1 Riverside Ave. in Brooklyn, plans include a Whole Foods Market, a Solidcore fitness studio, and a Japanese restaurant named Norikase. Permits for construction were issued in September. Additionally, a restaurant called Asado Life, which specializes in Argentine-inspired cooking methods, is scheduled to debut in the Shipyards marina support building by August 2026. This venue will offer lunch and dinner from Tuesday to Sunday, accommodating up to 140 guests with indoor and outdoor seating areas that overlook the St. Johns River. Asado Life marks the second location for the restaurant, expanding from its original site in St. Augustine.
The Jacksonville Shipyards project also includes plans for a Four Seasons Hotel & Private Residences, designed to host 170 hotel rooms and 26 residences, further enhancing the vibrancy of Downtown Jacksonville. Efforts to revitalize the riverfront area will also see the development of plans for an extended Riverwalk and an event lawn.
Additionally, discussions are underway regarding a new Hard Rock Hotel to be developed on a vacant riverfront site known as the Berkman II location; however, this establishment will not feature a casino. City officials are prioritizing these development efforts along Bay Street, with substantial funds earmarked for incentives to encourage construction projects in the area.
Collectively, these initiatives reflect Jacksonville’s commitment to enhancing its urban landscape while providing residents and visitors with improved amenities and experiences along the riverfront.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Jacksonville Marina Infrastructure Development Projects
Jacksonville Jaguars Receive Permit for New Headquarters
Construction Permits Approved for Four Seasons Hotel in Jacksonville
Jacksonville’s Record Financial Commitment of $74.1 Million
Additional Resources
- Jacksonville Jaguars: Iguna Investments Announces Asado Life Restaurant
- Jax Daily Record: Asado Life Restaurant Coming to Shipyards
- Jacksonville.com: Four Seasons Hotel Project in Shipyards
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Jacksonville
- Jax Daily Record: Marina Redevelopment Review
- Google Search: Jacksonville Shipyards project
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.
