Building Up Jax, 1/28: HOBNOB adds a gallery, more Gate Pkwy development

This week: HOBNOB decides to make creative use of some empty space in Unity Plaza, and yet another Gate Parkway project is coming. That and a few other noted projects in this week’s edition of Building Up Jax!

HOBNOB expands, gets artsy

HOBNOB has expanded its space below 220 Riverside at Unity Plaza.

The restaurant recently unveiled HOBNOB Gallery + Event Space in an unused space next to its location in Unity Plaza. The space was previously intended as a community center for Unity Plaza, but the center was scrapped as the initial expectations for Unity Plaza proved to be overzealous.

The space will be used as both an art gallery and extra dining space for parties of more than 16. The gallery will showcase a rotating collection of local artists’ work.

HOBNOB has thus far been one of the few bright spots of the Unity Plaza project, crafting a strong community presence in its relatively short existence.

More Gate Parkway development

Plans for yet another development along Gate Parkway have been revealed.

The vacant lot at the corner of Gate Parkway and Deerwood Park Blvd. will be developed into an apartment complex with office, medical and retail space adjacent to it, according to Jax Daily Record.

The project will also include over $1 million in traffic improvements.

Noted projects

• Southern Swells Brewing Company celebrates its grand opening today at noon, according to their Facebook page. Our list of breweries in Jax has been updated accordingly.
• The pending remodel of the Wendy’s location at Five Points in Riverside remains sidelined as residents squabble with developers over the idea of a modern-looking Wendy’s next to the historic Five Points district.
• A permit was issued for the build-out of First Watch at 4492 Southside Blvd.
• According to the Florida Times-Union, JEA is working on plans to either significantly remodel or rebuild its outdated downtown headquarters. The current building was constructed in 1962.
• New-to-market L&L Hawaiian Barbecue will open later this year in the Argyle Village Shopping Center, according to Jax Daily Record.