Jacksonville, Florida, January 22, 2026
Gateway Jax has begun redevelopment of a former parking garage at 721 North Pearl Street into a vibrant retail corridor, significantly revitalizing Downtown Jacksonville’s Pearl Square neighborhood. The project will create approximately 16,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space, while maintaining 693 parking spots. Slated for completion in early 2027, the initiative aims to enhance the area’s shopping experience and pedestrian accessibility, stimulating local economic growth.
Gateway Jax Transforms Downtown Jacksonville’s Retail Landscape
Jacksonville, Florida – Gateway Jax has commenced the redevelopment of a former parking garage at 721 North Pearl Street into a vibrant retail corridor, marking a significant step in revitalizing Downtown Jacksonville’s Pearl Square neighborhood.
Project Overview
The transformation involves converting the existing structure into approximately 16,000 square feet of ground-floor retail and restaurant space, while preserving 693 parking spaces on the upper levels. This initiative aims to rejuvenate the area’s shopping experience and enhance pedestrian accessibility. The project is slated for completion in early 2027.
Community and Infrastructure Enhancements
In collaboration with the City of Jacksonville and the Florida Department of Transportation, Gateway Jax plans to upgrade Beaver Street’s streetscape. Proposed improvements include new sidewalks, bike lanes, enhanced paving materials, and upgraded landscaping, fostering a seamless connection between the Pearl Square development and surrounding areas.
Integration with Pearl Square Development
This redevelopment is part of the broader Pearl Square project, a $2 billion mixed-use development spanning nine city blocks. Upon completion, Pearl Square will feature over 1,250 residential units, approximately 200,000 square feet of retail space, a 100-room boutique hotel, and public amenities such as parks and a signature curbless festival street. A 31,000-square-foot Publix grocery store is also planned to anchor the development, addressing the need for a full-service grocery store in Downtown Jacksonville. Construction for the Publix store is expected to begin in summer 2026, with an anticipated opening in 2028.
Economic Impact
The redevelopment is expected to stimulate the local economy by attracting new businesses, creating jobs, and increasing property values. It aligns with the Downtown Investment Authority’s objectives to attract investment, facilitate job creation, and enhance residential density through strategic development and public-private partnerships.
Background Context
Gateway Jax, a Jacksonville-based real estate development firm, has been instrumental in the revitalization of Downtown Jacksonville. The Pearl Square project is part of a larger $2 billion development pipeline that spans 25 city blocks, encompassing over 5,000 multifamily units and 500,000 square feet of commercial and retail space. The initiative reflects a significant capital investment in the city’s urban core, aiming to create a vibrant, mixed-use community that balances residential, retail, and public spaces.
Key Features of the Pearl Square Redevelopment
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Residential Units | Over 1,250 units |
| Retail Space | Approximately 200,000 square feet |
| Hotel | 100-room boutique hotel |
| Public Amenities | Parks, widened sidewalks, curbless festival street |
| Publix Grocery Store | 31,000-square-foot store, opening in 2028 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Pearl Square redevelopment?
The Pearl Square redevelopment is a $2 billion mixed-use project in Downtown Jacksonville, encompassing nine city blocks. It includes over 1,250 residential units, approximately 200,000 square feet of retail space, a 100-room boutique hotel, and public amenities such as parks and a signature curbless festival street.
What is the significance of the 721 North Pearl Street project?
The 721 North Pearl Street project involves converting a former parking garage into a 16,000-square-foot retail and restaurant space, serving as a retail anchor in the Pearl Square neighborhood and enhancing the area’s shopping experience.
When is the Publix grocery store expected to open?
The Publix grocery store, a 31,000-square-foot full-service store, is expected to open in 2028, filling a gap in full-service grocery access for Downtown residents.
How will the redevelopment impact the local community?
The redevelopment is expected to stimulate the local economy by attracting new businesses, creating jobs, and increasing property values. It aims to create a vibrant, mixed-use community that balances residential, retail, and public spaces.
What is the timeline for the 721 North Pearl Street project?
The project is slated for completion in early 2027, with the Publix grocery store expected to open in 2028.
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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.
