Jacksonville, Florida, November 25, 2025
Jacksonville has launched the RiversEdge Park on the Southbank of the St. Johns River, marking a significant step in the city’s waterfront revitalization. Covering over four acres, the park aims to foster community engagement and recreational activities. With features such as walking trails, public art installations, and event spaces, it represents a commitment to enhancing the downtown environment and encouraging economic growth. Plans for further development, including a new sculpture and expanded waterfront access, promise to enrich Jacksonville’s cultural and community landscape.
Jacksonville Unveils RiversEdge Park: A Step Towards Waterfront Revitalization
A New Era for the Southbank
Jacksonville, Florida – The city has taken a monumental leap in waterfront revitalization with the opening of RiversEdge Park on the Southbank of the St. Johns River. This new public park, part of the larger RiversEdge development, aims to enhance the downtown area by providing a vibrant space for community and recreational activities.
Located on over four acres of prime riverfront land, the park represents a commitment to fostering a thriving community enriched by nature, culture, and collaboration. As residents and entrepreneurs alike look forward to a transformed urban environment, the park serves as a beacon of hope for continued economic growth and innovation in Jacksonville.
RiversEdge Park Features
The newly launched park is more than just greenery; it embodies the spirit of community engagement and creative opportunities:
- Central Riverfront Park: This expansive green space is the heart of the development, encouraging outdoor activities and relaxation.
- Public Art Installations: The park features interactive sculptures and notable art pieces, adding cultural depth and visual interest.
- Walking Trails: Scenic paths along the river enhance pedestrian access, promoting health and connectivity.
- Playgrounds: Designed for children’s enjoyment, the playgrounds include modern equipment that prioritizes safety.
- Event Spaces: Versatile areas will host community activities and gatherings, fostering a sense of togetherness.
The Vision Behind RiversEdge
Mayor Donna Deegan highlighted the significance of RiversEdge Park, reflecting the city’s long-held vision to create accessible open spaces for residents. The development, with an overall investment of $693 million, aims to reshape the Southbank into a vibrant mixed-use community, anticipated to include over 1,000 residential units and additional commercial spaces. This project exemplifies the positive impact of public investment in local infrastructure, which, combined with reduced regulatory hurdles, can encourage entrepreneurial ventures and stimulate economic activities in Duval County.
Future Developments of the RiversEdge Project
As plans unfold, the RiversEdge project is set to introduce exciting new amenities that will further enhance community engagement, including:
- Central Park: A highlight of the project is a forthcoming $2.87 million sculpture named ‘The Pearl,’ slated for completion in March 2026.
- Marsh Boardwalk: This addition will bolster access to natural habitats, enriching the park’s ecological footprint.
- Extended Southbank Riverwalk: Expansion of the riverwalk will create more interconnections along the waterfront.
- Boater Slips and Kayak Launch: New facilities will promote waterfront activities, encouraging residents to engage with the waterway.
Historical Significance of Friendship Fountain
Adjacent to RiversEdge Park is the iconic Friendship Fountain, a historic landmark for Jacksonville since 1965. After a significant renovation costing nearly $8 million, completed in 2024, the fountain has been beautifully restored, continuing to draw both locals and tourists, thus contributing to the area’s revitalization. The presence of such cherished landmarks accentuates the blend of history and modern development, appealing to both community pride and tourism.
Former Mayor Lenny Curry’s New Role
In related news, former Jacksonville Mayor Lenny Curry has recently registered as a lobbyist after concluding his term in 2023. He has joined a leading lobbying firm, representing numerous clients, including major local institutions. His transition into this role may further influence the development landscape in Jacksonville, ensuring that community interests continue to resonate within local governance.
Key Takeaways
The opening of RiversEdge Park is not just an investment in urban aesthetics; it’s a statement about Jacksonville’s commitment to community development, economic growth, and quality of life. With plans for more amenities and improvements underway, local entrepreneurs and residents alike have reasons to be optimistic about the future. Investing in public spaces can foster innovation and invigorate local businesses, ensuring that Jacksonville remains a vibrant hub for Florida entrepreneurs.
Engaging with Jacksonville’s Future
As the city embarks on this transformative journey, residents are encouraged to support local businesses and participate in community events to maximize the potential of these new developments. The revitalization of Jacksonville’s waterfront not only empowers local residents but also positions the city as an attractive destination for newcomers and investors alike.
What is the RiversEdge project?
The RiversEdge project is a $693 million development aimed at revitalizing Jacksonville’s Southbank area. It includes over 1,000 residential units, 200 hotel rooms, and public park spaces, with the first phase being the newly opened park.
What features does the new RiversEdge Park offer?
The park features a central riverfront area, public art installations, walking trails, playgrounds, and event spaces, all designed to enhance the community’s recreational and cultural experiences.
Who is Lenny Curry, and what is his new role?
Lenny Curry served as Jacksonville’s mayor from 2015 to 2023. After a two-year waiting period post-office, he has registered as a lobbyist with Ballard Partners, representing 28 clients, including major local institutions.
Key Features of the RiversEdge Park
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Central Riverfront Park | A large green space serving as the heart of the development. |
| Public Art Installations | Interactive sculptures and landmark works of art. |
| Walking Trails | Scenic paths along the river, enhancing pedestrian access. |
| Playgrounds | Designed for children, featuring modern equipment and safety measures. |
| Event Spaces | Areas suitable for community events and gatherings. |
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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.
