News Summary
Jacksonville’s new $34 million marina, named after former Mayor Hans Tanzler, aims to enhance waterfront access while honoring environmental reforms. The project will unfold in three phases, starting in 2027, with the first phase already funded at $12 million. This development between Hyatt Regency and The Plaza Condominiums will feature a modern harbormaster house and floating docks, contributing to the area’s historical significance and ecological preservation.
Jacksonville Plans $34 Million Downtown Northbank Marina in Honor of Former Mayor Hans Tanzler
The city of Jacksonville has announced plans for an expansive $34 million marina project on the Downtown Northbank, named the Hans Tanzler Marina. This initiative aims to honor former Jacksonville Mayor Hans Tanzler, who served from 1967 to 1979 and played a pivotal role in improving the environmental health of the St. Johns River. The marina is planned to unfold over three phases, and significant construction is anticipated to begin in 2027.
The first phase of the marina has already secured $12 million in funding from the city’s Capital Improvement Plan. Project managers are now working on finalizing the necessary permits and design details for this phase, with expectations to complete this groundwork within the current year. The first phase will feature two sets of floating docks and a harbormaster house situated in the 200 block of East Bay Street, positioned between the Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront and The Plaza Condominiums.
Project Details and Future Development
The harbormaster house will cover approximately 2,000 square feet and includes modern architectural elements such as metallic screens that can be illuminated in various colors, enhancing its presence at night. The design aims to create a visually striking structure that the architect describes as a “jewel within the city.” Importantly, this house will feature a roof-mounted, mast-like pole that also has lighting capabilities.
Following the first phase, the second and third phases will focus on expanding the marina with additional slips along its northern and eastern segments. A floating dock designed to function as a breakwater will also be constructed on the southern side of the marina.
Environmental Contributions and Historical Significance
The marina serves not only as a modern recreational facility but also as a tribute to Hans Tanzler’s legacy, particularly his dedicated efforts toward environmental reform during his tenure as mayor. Tanzler was instrumental in enacting critical environmental regulations which led to the installation of 230 miles of sewer lines and the elimination of raw sewage discharges into the St. Johns River. His advocacy for environmental responsibility remains a significant part of Jacksonville’s history.
Background and Site Information
The site earmarked for the marina previously housed a parking lot that served the Duval County Courthouse, which was demolished in 2018. Currently, this location is known as the The Ford on Bay property. As urban development in Jacksonville continues, planners are encouraging integration between the marina’s design and potential future projects in the surrounding area. A liaison for the Downtown Development Review Board (DDRB) emphasized the importance of coherence in design with future developments.
Representatives from the Downtown Investment Authority noted that the marina’s modest structure is not required to match upcoming architectural developments at The Ford on Bay site. Although the marina project was discussed during a recent DDRB meeting, no formal decisions were made at that session.
Next Steps for the Project
As Jacksonville moves forward with the Hans Tanzler Marina project, local officials are optimistic about its potential to enhance waterfront accessibility and promote environmental stewardship in the community. With relevant preparations and planning continuing in the coming months, the city is looking forward to refreshing the Northbank area and honoring an influential figure in its history.
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Additional Resources
- JAX Daily Record: City Official – Marina Honoring Former Jacksonville Mayor Hans Tanzler Would Cost $34 Million
- JAX Daily Record: DDRB to Discuss Conceptual Plans for Marina Named for Former Jacksonville Mayor Hans Tanzler
- Jacksonville.com: Thanksgiving 2024 – Jacksonville Restaurants Open & Closed
- Wikipedia: Hans Tanzler
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Jacksonville
