Building Up Jax: Laura Street Trio/Barnett Bank project starts construction

LAURA ST TRIO + BARNETT BANK PROJECT OFF AND RUNNING

Construction began this week on the redevelopment of the Laura Street Trio and Barnett Bank buildings.

According to a press release from Southeast Group, initial construction will involve internal cleanup and structural repairs. Danis will be the contractor on the project – they’ve also handled the construction of the 20 West Adams, Cowford Chophouse, and Daily’s Place projects among others.

Plans for the long-awaited project include “a mixed-use program, featuring international banking, 145-room Marriott flagged boutique-style hotel, higher education, new retail and restaurants, along with over 100 residential loft apartments.”

There are also plans for a 550-space parking garage on a nearby lot along Forsyth St., which will also include ground-floor retail space.

The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2018.

BOULEVARD CROSSING PLANS SUBMITTED

The dilapidated shopping center at the corner of Beach and University may soon be getting a new lease on life.

Plans were submitted for the redevelopment of the center, formerly anchored by Kmart, into a new center called Boulevard Crossing.

The submitted plans show three outparcel buildings – although one appears to be an existing McDonald’s location. The other two would combine for around 18,000 square feet of retail space. A fourth outparcel is sectioned off for future development.

No word yet on potential tenants for the project.

JTA PLANNING SIDEWALK IMPROVEMENTS

Jacksonville Transportation Authority has filed plans to improve pedestrian access along streets that are key First Coast Flyer pathways.

The plans include improved, rebuilt sidewalks along stretches of several key streets in downtown, Springfield, and further north, covering the North Corridor of the rapid transit system.

These changes, once applied, should make it safer for First Coast Flyer riders to walk to and from their bus stations.

NOTED PROJECTS

As we noted earlier in the week, Cowford Chophouse will officially open its doors on October 26.
Work has begun on converting the former Hardees at 5081 Butler Blvd. into an Arby’s.
IKEA is already preparing for the opening day rush. They’ve filed plans for temporary parking lots to be “created” in four adjacent parcels of land.
The Wendy’s building at 3910 University Blvd. W. will be demolished – possibly to make room for a newly-built Wendy’s.
The Burger King at 4948 University Blvd. W. received a permit for exterior upgrades.
A new, $1 million office building for Northeast Florida Builders Association will be built at 6747 Southpoint Parkway.
A 25,000 square foot retail shell building is proposed for 10903 Lem Turner Rd.