Jacksonville, Florida, December 4, 2025
The design of the 10-acre Shipyards West Park in Jacksonville, Florida is now 90% finalized. Situated along the St. Johns River, this vibrant waterfront destination will feature an event pavilion, flex lawn, playscape, Riverwalk, sports courts, dining areas, and historical exhibits. Construction is set to begin in 2026, with a budget of over $54 million allocated by the city. Community engagement has played a crucial role in shaping the park’s features and design, aiming to enhance recreational opportunities and celebrate Jacksonville’s maritime heritage.
Jacksonville’s Shipyards West Park Design Nears Completion
Jacksonville, Florida – The design for the 10-acre Shipyards West Park is nearing completion, with plans now 90% finalized. The park, situated between Catherine Street and Hogans Creek along the St. Johns River Northbank, is set to become a vibrant waterfront destination for residents and visitors alike.
Key Features of the Park
- Event Pavilion: A two-story structure designed to host various events and gatherings.
- Flex Lawn: A versatile open space intended for recreation, games, and play.
- Playscape: A rustic wooden playground featuring curved climbing walls, catering to children of all ages.
- Riverwalk: A scenic pathway along the river’s edge, offering picturesque views and access to the water.
- Sports Courts: Facilities for activities such as pickleball and sand volleyball.
- Dining and Picnic Areas: Spaces including a food hall, restaurant, and picnic spots for social gatherings.
- Historical Exhibits: The park will honor Jacksonville’s maritime heritage with installations like the USS Orleck Naval Museum and the Fire Museum.
Project Timeline and Budget
The first phase of construction is scheduled to begin in 2026, focusing on the event pavilion, flex lawn, and an extension of the Riverwalk. The city has allocated $54.7 million for the park in its Fiscal 2025/2026 budget, with an additional $5 million for Fiscal 2026/2027. The total cost of the project is estimated at $26.41 million, with funding also included in the 2021-22 and 2023-24 Capital Improvement Plans.
Community Engagement
Community involvement has been a cornerstone of the park’s development. A series of open houses and public meetings have been held to gather feedback and ensure the park meets the needs and desires of Jacksonville residents. The design team, led by Agency Landscape + Planning LLC, has incorporated community suggestions into the final plans, reflecting a collaborative effort to create a space that resonates with the local community.
Background
The Shipyards West Park is part of a broader initiative to revitalize Jacksonville’s riverfront. The project aims to transform the area into a dynamic public space that celebrates the city’s history, provides recreational opportunities, and fosters community engagement. The park’s design emphasizes accessibility, sustainability, and inclusivity, ensuring it serves as a welcoming space for all visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Shipyards West Park?
The Shipyards West Park is a planned 10-acre waterfront park in Jacksonville, Florida, designed to offer recreational, cultural, and historical attractions to the community.
What are the key features of the park?
The park will feature an event pavilion, flex lawn, playscape, Riverwalk, sports courts, dining and picnic areas, and historical exhibits like the USS Orleck Naval Museum and the Fire Museum.
When is construction scheduled to begin?
Construction is scheduled to begin in 2026, focusing on the event pavilion, flex lawn, and an extension of the Riverwalk.
How much funding has been allocated for the project?
The city has allocated $54.7 million for the park in its Fiscal 2025/2026 budget, with an additional $5 million for Fiscal 2026/2027. The total project cost is estimated at $26.41 million, with funding also included in the 2021-22 and 2023-24 Capital Improvement Plans.
How has the community been involved in the park’s development?
The design team has held open houses and public meetings to gather feedback, ensuring the park reflects the needs and desires of Jacksonville residents.
Key Features of Shipyards West Park
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Pavilion | A two-story structure designed to host various events and gatherings. |
| Flex Lawn | A versatile open space intended for recreation, games, and play. |
| Playscape | A rustic wooden playground featuring curved climbing walls, catering to children of all ages. |
| Riverwalk | A scenic pathway along the river’s edge, offering picturesque views and access to the water. |
| Sports Courts | Facilities for activities such as pickleball and sand volleyball. |
| Dining and Picnic Areas | Spaces including a food hall, restaurant, and picnic spots for social gatherings. |
| Historical Exhibits | The park will honor Jacksonville’s maritime heritage with installations like the USS Orleck Naval Museum and the Fire Museum. |
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Jacksonville’s Riverfront Developments Show Significant Progress
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.
