The city has big plans for Downtown.  The plans have been in the works since 2007, and 2009 will bring more improvements.

Recent updates from the Jacksonville Economic Development Commission, JEDC.

2009 Streetscape Updates
City Council approved funding for the proposed Laura Street Improvements Program. Construction is scheduled to begin in October and includes streetscaping, landscaping and traffic improvements along Laura Street from the Landing to Hemming Plaza. To learn more about Downtown’s comprehensive streetscape plan, view the Downtown Action Plan.

Bay Street, between Ocean and Newnan streets, will be converted from a one-way to a two-way street. Construction is scheduled to begin in early summer of 2009.

Independent Drive, from Laura to Newnan streets, will also be converted from a one-way to a two-way street, with construction commencing in the fall of 2009.

The city has also done a Streetcar Pre-Feasibility Study to understand the relationship between urban-connectivity and revitalization. The study showed there is a sufficient need to do a full study of streetcars and the best way to adopt them. The preliminary study can be found here.

Downtown Jacksonville has made huge and consistent improvements over the last few years. We hope that we continue to make these improvements and live up to our potential.