Building Up Jax: Berkman Plaza II (finally) coming down for redevelopment

Berkman Plaza II to be demolished

After sitting unfinished for more than a decade, the metal frame that was once to become the second phase of Berkman Plaza is set to be demolished and cleared from the property.

Jacksonville Riverfront Revitalization received a permit this week to demolish the 18-story frame at 500 E. Bay Street at a cost of just over $1 million. The group wants to clear the project for a mixed-use development featuring residential, retail, and park space.

The demolition marks the end of a 13-year saga that began when a worker was killed during the construction of Berkman Plaza’s second phase. The project was abandoned while ensuing lawsuits played out, and the property has sat unfinished ever since.

There is not yet a timeline for when JRR’s redevelopment would begin.

Noted Projects

• Harvest House of Cannabis received a permit for renovations at 10339 San Jose Blvd.
• St. Johns Endodontics received a permit for build-out at 9471 Baymeadows Rd.
• Mavis Discount Tire submitted plans for a new 6,100-square-foot building at 910 Dunn Ave.
• Northpoint Realty received a foundation-only permit in relation to the construction of a future Publix-anchored shopping center at 12541 Yellow Bluff Rd.