Jacksonville, Florida, December 16, 2025
Jacksonville, Florida, is experiencing a transformation as several hotels in the Baymeadows and Southside areas are being converted into modern apartment communities. Elevate CIG is redeveloping properties to meet the housing demand and rejuvenate underutilized locations. The development plan includes the LaQuinta Inn & Suites (Baymeadows), Hotel on Western Way, and LaQuinta Inn & Suites (Tinseltown). Additionally, a 160-unit multifamily development is approved to address the growing housing need in the region.
Jacksonville, Florida: Hotel-Conversions Transform Baymeadows and Southside into Vibrant Apartment Communities
Jacksonville, Florida is witnessing a significant transformation as several former hotels in the Baymeadows and Southside areas are being converted into modern apartment complexes. This redevelopment aims to meet the growing demand for housing in these neighborhoods and rejuvenate previously underutilized properties.
Key Developments in Baymeadows and Southside
In September 2023, Elevate CIG, a multifamily investment firm, acquired three hotels in South Jacksonville with plans to redevelop them into apartment communities. The properties include:
- LaQuinta Inn & Suites (Baymeadows) at 8220 Dix Ellis Trail, Southside/Mandarin region, offering 80 units.
- Hotel on Western Way in the Southside/Mandarin area, with 79 units.
- LaQuinta Inn & Suites (Tinseltown) in the Southside/Mandarin region, with an expected opening in July 2024.
These conversions are part of Elevate CIG’s strategy to invest in Jacksonville’s rapidly developing market, leveraging available tax benefits to enhance the city’s housing landscape. The redevelopment efforts are expected to provide functional and attractive living spaces, contributing to the revitalization of the area.
Additional Infill Housing Approvals
In October 2024, the Jacksonville City Council approved plans for a 160-unit multifamily development on a vacant 2.93-acre parcel near Baymeadows Way and Baymeadows Way West. Originally designated for a regional shopping center and business/industrial park, this approval marks a significant step in addressing the housing needs of the Southside community. The development is expected to provide additional housing options and stimulate economic growth in the area.
Background on Baymeadows and Southside
Baymeadows is a suburban neighborhood and economic hub of Jacksonville, located on the city’s Southside, approximately 10 miles from Downtown. The area offers an urban-suburban feel with a mixture of business parks, retail, and residential spaces. It is bounded by major roads such as Baymeadows Road (State Road 152), which extends from an intersection with San Jose Boulevard in the west to an interchange with I-295 in the east. The neighborhood is characterized by its diverse architectural styles, including ranch-style homes and more contemporary designs. Landmarks include the San Jose Academy, Community Hospice & Palliative Care, and Mandarin Middle School.
Southside is a region in Jacksonville that encompasses various neighborhoods, including Baymeadows. It is known for its residential communities, commercial centers, and proximity to major highways, making it a desirable location for both residents and businesses. The area’s development has been marked by a mix of suburban and urban elements, offering a range of amenities and services to its inhabitants.
The conversion of hotels into apartments in these areas reflects a broader trend in Jacksonville to repurpose existing structures to meet housing demands. This approach not only addresses the need for more living spaces but also contributes to the economic revitalization of neighborhoods by attracting new residents and businesses.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What hotels in Baymeadows and Southside are being converted into apartments?
In September 2023, Elevate CIG acquired three hotels in South Jacksonville for conversion into apartment communities:
- LaQuinta Inn & Suites (Baymeadows) at 8220 Dix Ellis Trail, Southside/Mandarin region, offering 80 units.
- Hotel on Western Way in the Southside/Mandarin area, with 79 units.
- LaQuinta Inn & Suites (Tinseltown) in the Southside/Mandarin region, with an expected opening in July 2024.
What is the purpose of converting these hotels into apartments?
The conversions aim to meet the growing demand for housing in the Baymeadows and Southside neighborhoods, providing functional and attractive living spaces while revitalizing previously underutilized properties.
When is the LaQuinta Inn & Suites (Tinseltown) expected to open?
The LaQuinta Inn & Suites (Tinseltown) in the Southside/Mandarin region is expected to open in July 2024.
What is the significance of the 160-unit multifamily development approved in October 2024?
The Jacksonville City Council approved plans for a 160-unit multifamily development on a vacant 2.93-acre parcel near Baymeadows Way and Baymeadows Way West. This development is expected to provide additional housing options and stimulate economic growth in the Southside community.
What is the Baymeadows neighborhood known for?
Baymeadows is a suburban neighborhood and economic hub of Jacksonville, located on the city’s Southside, approximately 10 miles from Downtown. The area offers an urban-suburban feel with a mixture of business parks, retail, and residential spaces. It is bounded by major roads such as Baymeadows Road (State Road 152), which extends from an intersection with San Jose Boulevard in the west to an interchange with I-295 in the east. The neighborhood is characterized by its diverse architectural styles, including ranch-style homes and more contemporary designs. Landmarks include the San Jose Academy, Community Hospice & Palliative Care, and Mandarin Middle School.
What is the Southside region in Jacksonville known for?
Southside is a region in Jacksonville that encompasses various neighborhoods, including Baymeadows. It is known for its residential communities, commercial centers, and proximity to major highways, making it a desirable location for both residents and businesses. The area’s development has been marked by a mix of suburban and urban elements, offering a range of amenities and services to its inhabitants.
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Key Features of the Hotel-Conversions in Baymeadows and Southside
| Property Name | Address | Region | Number of Units | Expected Opening |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LaQuinta Inn & Suites (Baymeadows) | 8220 Dix Ellis Trail | Southside/Mandarin | 80 | July 2024 |
| Hotel on Western Way | Southside/Mandarin | Southside/Mandarin | 79 | Not specified |
| LaQuinta Inn & Suites (Tinseltown) | Southside/Mandarin | Southside/Mandarin | Not specified | July 2024 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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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.
