News Summary
In Jacksonville, two proposals have been submitted to acquire the vacant JEA tower, a historic building that has stood empty since April 2023. The firms involved, Simple State Inc. and Live Oak Contracting LLC, aim to revitalize the tower, recognized as a significant piece of mid-century modern architecture. With its future uncertain, the proposals signify a hopeful turn for the iconic structure, which could contribute to the downtown area’s rejuvenation and provide more housing options for residents.
Jacksonville – Two proposals to acquire the vacant JEA tower in downtown Jacksonville have been submitted, signaling a potential shift for the historic building that has been unoccupied since the Jacksonville Electric Authority relocated its headquarters in April 2023. The two firms that submitted bids are Simple State Inc. and Live Oak Contracting LLC.
The JEA tower, constructed in the early 1960s, is located on West Church Street and has been classified as an endangered building by the Jacksonville Historical Society due to its extended vacancy. Recognized as a “masterpiece” of mid-century modern architecture, it is characterized by its distinctive hexagonal “honeycomb” windows. This architectural significance makes it critical to the city’s cultural landscape.
Live Oak Contracting, which is situated a few blocks from the tower, has a proven track record, having successfully developed numerous apartment complexes across Florida and beyond. The company is also interested in acquiring the historic Laura Street Trio. Simple State Inc., led by Marc P. Kozman, is based in Jacksonville Beach and specializes in converting vacant office spaces into residential apartments. This includes a notable project that transformed a building that had been empty since the FBI left in 2009.
Bids for the tower were officially opened on July 29. However, precise details regarding the proposals, including the offered prices, will remain confidential for a period of 30 days or until the JEA indicates an intent to proceed with a particular contract. The subsequent steps will involve a thorough evaluation of these bids, the identification of a preferred proposal for negotiation, and then obtaining approval from the JEA board.
The JEA initially solicited proposals in February, requesting developers to outline their plans for the former headquarters while emphasizing the importance of community benefits in any development proposals. By seeking out new opportunities for the vacant buildings, JEA aims to rejuvenate the downtown area and provide activities that benefit local residents.
In addition to the JEA tower, the JEA is also looking to sell its former customer service center and the Adair Building, which contains parking and retail space. The former customer service center shares a parking deck with the JEA tower, which can accommodate approximately 190 vehicles. Both properties have been designated as surplus by the JEA board, allowing the sale process to advance without the need to specify an asking price at this time. The final sale terms will be subject to approval from the JEA board following negotiations with the selected buyer.
The JEA building once held the title of the tallest structure on the Northbank when it was inaugurated in 1963. Initially, it served as the headquarters for the Universal Marion Company, with retail operations by Ivey’s Department Store occupying the first two floors. However, following the JEA’s move to its new office at 225 N. Pearl Street, located near the Duval County Courthouse, the tower has faced uncertainty regarding its future.
As the JEA tower stands vacant, the Jacksonville Historical Society highlights the growing danger of potential demolition if the building remains empty for an extended period. Local community members have expressed a desire for more housing options in the downtown area, which they believe could stimulate the local economy by attracting visitors to nearby parks, shops, and restaurants. There are suggestions from residents for the revival of former attractions, including the much-cherished rotating restaurant known as “The Embers,” which once operated within the tower.
As the situation develops, the progression of the proposals submitted by Simple State Inc. and Live Oak Contracting LLC will be crucial for the future of the JEA tower and its place within the Jacksonville community.
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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.
