13. State & Union Street Resurfacing Project

The Florida Department of Transportation is investing $13 million in the resurfacing of State and Unions Streets and the Mathews Expressway between I-95 and MLK, Jr. Parkway. The 4-mile project includes repairing and replacing sidewalks, upgrades to handicap-accessible sidewalk ramps, crosswalks and repair to storm drain pipes and inlets. Also included in this project is the conversion of Main Street, between State and Union Streets, from a one-way to a two-way street. This project is anticipated to be completed in the summer of 2017.

For more information: https://myfdotnefl.wordpress.com/2015/11/16/state-street-union-street-and-mathews-expressway-resurfacing-project-2/

14. FSCJ Dormitory

New glass frame retail storefronts have been recently installed at the Lerner Shops Building. The Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ) is in the process of converting the long vacant structure into student housing. When complete, FSCJ plans to house up to 60 students in the structure at 20 W. Adams Street. In addition, FSCJ plans to open a “Panera-style” culinary café on the building’s ground floor that will act as showcase for the school’s culinary program.

For more information: https://www.bizjournals.com/jacksonville/blog/morning-edition/2016/02/fscj-student-housing-capitalizes-on-larger-trends.html

15. EverBank Field Flex Field

Construction continues on a new flex field at EverBank Field. When complete, the flex field, will be used for an indoor practice facility, as well as an events and entertainment venue.

For more information: https://www.bizjournals.com/jacksonville/news/2016/03/17/jaguars-amphitheater-flex-field-construction-to.html

16. Gate Petroleum

Vertical construction is underway on a new Gate gas station at the SW corner of Park and Forest Streets. When complete, the $1.3 million gas station will feature 20 fueling positions and 6,401-square-foot convenience store with outdoor seating.

For more information: https://www.jaxdailyrecord.com/showstory.php?Story_id=547270

17. Tossgreen

Local healthful fast-casual restaurant chain Tossgreen, plans to open a 1,500 square foot restaurant on the ground-floor of the SunTrust Tower in summer 2017. Offering breakfast and lunch, the restaurant will include outdoor seating along Laura Street.

For more information: https://www.jaxdailyrecord.com/showstory.php?Story_id=548927&searchtext=tossgreen

18. LIVE Bakery and Bar

The Live Bakery and Bar will be opening soon at 327 and 331 East Bay Street. According to the Jax Daily Record, “Owner John Ferra said Monday the bar area would offer seafood, such as oysters and crab legs, and operate more as a sports lounge. He expects to open about 4 p.m. and close late.”. In addition, Live Bakery will be an offshoot a Greek-based bakery operated by Maria Ferra at 5570 Florida Mining Boulevard South. The bakery will specialize in bread and dessert products. The 200 seat restaurant, bar and bakery will employ 15 people when it is completed in six to twelve months.

For more information: https://www.jaxdailyrecord.com/showstory.php?Story_id=549171

19. Houston Street Manor

Beneficial Communities, LLC, an affordable housing developer, plans to transform a vacant lot at 139 North Jefferson Street into a 72-unit senior housing development. Construction has recently started on the $8.6 million, seven-story building with five floors for apartments over two stories of parking.

20. The Happy Grilled Cheese

Anthony Hashem, the self-proclaimed ‘Sultan of all Things Cheesy’ behind popular The Happy Grilled Cheese food truck, is opening his first brick and mortar location in downtown Jacksonville within just a few short weeks. Downtown diners will be able to enjoy a full menu of gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches and melts at 219 N Hogan Street.

https://www.moderncities.com/article/2017-feb-the-happy-grilled-cheese-opening-downtown

21. Burlock & Barrel Whiskey Distillery

The Burlock & Barrel American Whiskey Distillery plans to open a whiskey distillery to produce premium spirits in Brooklyn. The new distillery will be located at 417 Magnolia Street.

For more information: https://www.moderncities.com/article/2016-jul-burlock-barrel-whiskey-distillery-coming-to-riverside

22. Hemming Park

The City of Jacksonville is in the process of beautifying the east side of Hemming Park. Renovations include removing bricks and ledges around the east fountain to create a new landscaped area. Additional work will involve adding concrete slabs to be used in a sculpture garden and sculptures that will come later.

For more information: https://jacksonville.com/news/metro/2017-06-12/work-begins-beautify-part-jacksonville-s-hemming-park

23. Baptist Health Lot A Parking Structure

Construction continues on the development of a new parking garage for Baptist Health at 1051 Palm Avenue. The proposed garage will be a seven story building with an overall height of approximately 90 feet. The project will have a footprint of 116,793 square feet with a total of 817,551 square feet providing 2,247 parking spaces with 33 accessible spaces. The parking garage is needed to support the continued growth and master planning of the Baptist Medical Center on the Southbank. The garage is anticipated to be completed by January 2018.

For more information: https://www.moderncities.com/article/2016-oct-baptist-health-plans-massive-southbank-parking-garage

24. Sidney J. Gefen Riverwalk Park

Work is underway to demolish a Northbank Riverwalk footbridge in Sidney J. Gefen Riverwalk Park. When complete, the re-routed riverwalk will include a new launching spot for kayaking.

For more information: https://jacksonville.com/news/metro/2017-05-16/northbank-riverwalk-footbridge-jacksonville-be-demolished-kayak-launching-spot

25. The Barnett

The conversion of the old Barnett National Bank building will soon be underway. Recently, two building permits have been issued for $399,250 worth slab work and another $258,700 worth of interior demolition. Major work should begin in two to three months. When complete, the Barnett will include 50,000 square feet of commercial office space and 100 apartments.

For more information: https://jacksonville.com/business/real-estate/2017-06-02/first-work-beginning-old-barnett-bank-building