Pearl Street District: A Multi-Phase Mixed-Use Development

Gateway Jax, led by CEO Bryan Moll, is embarking on an ambitious multi-phase, mixed-use development project to revitalize up to 20 blocks of Downtown Jacksonville. Moll, with a proven track record of successful redevelopment projects in Tampa and Washington, D.C., sees Jacksonville as the next frontier for urban transformation. Project Scope and GoalsThe centerpiece of this initiative is the Pearl Street District, a $500 million project encompassing 1,160 apartments, 120,000 square feet of retail space (including a grocery store), office space, and ample parking. The overall development aims to create a vibrant, walkable neighborhood that will serve as a catalyst for broader downtown revitalization. Development Phases and TimelinePhase One: Focuses on five blocks, including the iconic former First Baptist Church and its lighthouse, which will be repurposed into commercial space. Construction on the first building (Block N11) is slated to begin in September 2024. Block N11: A seven-story building with 205 units and 24,086 square feet of retail, commercial, and storage space. A $45 million permit is currently under city review. Block N8: A 22-story mixed-use building with 530 units, including multifamily and short-term stays, and 62,000 square feet of retail space. Site plans were filed in March 2024. Block N4: A seven-story mixed-use building with 281 residential units and 18,896 square feet of retail space. Civil plans are pending city approval. Block N5: The former First Baptist Church and lighthouse, to be repurposed into commercial space. Conceptual design was approved in July 2024, with final DDRB approval pending. Subsequent Phases: Will encompass the remaining 15 blocks, with details to be released as the project progresses. Economic Impact and Community Benefits Gateway Jax's investment is expected to generate significant economic activity through job creation, increased tax revenue, and property value appreciation. The development's focus on creating a vibrant, mixed-use neighborhood with retail, residential, and commercial components is anticipated to enhance the overall quality of life for downtown residents and visitors.

Design and Planning Bold Line Design has been selected as the architect for the Pearl Street District. The project is being developed in close coordination with the city of Jacksonville, including obtaining necessary permits and approvals from the Downtown Development Review Board (DDRB).In summary, Gateway Jax's Pearl Street District is a transformative project that promises to reshape Downtown Jacksonville. By combining residential, commercial, and retail components with thoughtful urban planning, the development aims to create a thriving, dynamic community that will serve as a model for future urban revitalization efforts.