Jacksonville’s Gateway Jax Breaks Ground on New Development

News Summary

Jacksonville is poised for significant growth as Gateway Jax announces the groundbreaking of its second project on May 29. This new mixed-use development at 425 Beaver Street will feature 286 multifamily units and nearly 20,000 square feet of retail space, contributing to urban revitalization. The Block N4 project is part of a broader Pearl Square initiative, expected to bring more residential units and commercial opportunities to downtown Jacksonville, marking a substantial investment in the local economy.

Jacksonville is set to witness significant development as Gateway Jax announced the groundbreaking of its second major project, scheduled for May 29. Located at 425 Beaver Street, this new mixed-use building will comprise 286 multifamily units and nearly 20,000 square feet of retail space, marking a substantial addition to the area.

The property, formerly known as Block N4, is strategically positioned within the urban layout, bounded by Union, Pearl, Beaver, and Clay streets. The designs for the Block N4 building feature a prominent seven-story structure that will integrate both residential and commercial spaces, along with a parking garage to accommodate residents and visitors.

This project is two blocks north and one block west of another significant development, the Block N11 building at 515 N. Pearl St., which is currently under construction. The Block N11 project represents a $45 million investment in a mixed-use development that will yield 205 apartment units alongside 24,086 square feet allocated for retail, commercial, and storage purposes.

A site-clearing permit for the Block N4 project was issued by the city on May 16, initiating the groundwork necessary for construction. The ongoing development in the Pearl Square area signifies a trend, with more buildings expected to commence construction in 2025 and 2026, further revitalizing the downtown landscape.

Comprehensive Area Development Plans

The fully realized Pearl Square development is estimated to include over 1,250 new residential units, approximately 200,000 square feet of retail space, and a boutique hotel featuring a minimum of 100 keys. The design for the area emphasizes a curbless festival street and aims to provide essential daily services, such as a full-service grocery store, high-end fitness facilities, bodegas, and a variety of restaurants.

Investment and Collaboration

The total estimated capital investment for the Gateway Jax development is projected to reach $2 billion over the upcoming decade. The project is spearheaded by members from prominent organizations, including JWB Real Estate Capital and DLP Capital. Various architecture and engineering firms are collaborating on the 425 Beaver Street project, with Jacksonville-based Faver Gray serving as the general contractor. The design of public spaces and parks will be managed by Hoerr Schaudt, enhancing the community’s aesthetics and functionality.

City Incentives and Future Plans

To facilitate this ambitious development, the Jacksonville City Council approved an incentive package valued at $98.58 million for the Pearl Square area in August 2024. This package includes multiple grants tailored for various blocks, such as Block N4 and Block N5, which encompass comprehensive redevelopment plans aimed at transforming the urban environment.

Looking ahead, plans for the Pearl Square area also include the proposed Block N8, envisioned to be a minimum of 21 stories tall with at least 508 residential units and ground-floor retail space. Furthermore, the city is advancing plans to restore the historic Ambassador Hotel, located at 420 North Julia Street. This restoration will introduce a minimum of 100 hotel keys, a high-end restaurant, conference space, and a 487-space parking garage, alongside retail enhancements in the vicinity.

Concerns and Considerations

While the development presents numerous opportunities, concerns have been raised regarding a land swap involving JWB Real Estate Capital. These concerns revolve around potential conflicts of interest linked to past legal disputes and political contributions. Nevertheless, the overall outlook for the Gateway Jax project and its surrounding developments appears to prioritize urban revitalization and economic stimulation in Jacksonville.

As construction efforts unfold, the Gateway Jax initiative is poised to significantly reshape downtown Jacksonville, presenting new housing, retail opportunities, and revitalized public spaces for residents and visitors alike.

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Additional Resources

• Jax Daily Record: Groundbreaking for Second Gateway Jax Project Set for May 29
• Wikipedia: Jacksonville
• Jacksonville.com: Gateway Jax Partner Legal Issues Should Give City Pause
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Urban Development
• Action News Jax: Jacksonville’s Finance Chair Wants List of Gateway Jax Investors
• Google Search: Jacksonville Urban Development
• The Jaxson Mag: Gateway Jax Announces Ambassador Hotel Plans
• Google News: Gateway Jax