Metrojacksonville.com has learned of interesting developments in the Urban Core surrounding the small historic Lerner's storefront on Main Street.

Apparently triggered by the opening of the Starbucks Coffee on the ground floor of 11 East, interest has suddenly been piqued in the area. This must come as a great validation to Elaine Brown, the intrepid former Councilwoman who connected the two partners of this deal hoping for this very outcome.  When we originally documented this plan, it was thought at the time that a few corporate anchors in the downtown would spur growth of the mom and pops and cause local investors to reconsider downtown, and that is exactly what is happening.

It's already June, so it is time for the monthly Downtown Construction Rundown. Some projects have progressed along and some have not. Check out the list.

Recently, the Novare Group announced plans to expand into the Jacksonville market in 2007, along with Houston and Phoenix.  Find out why Jacksonville and Novare may be a match made in urban oriented heaven.

Check up on the progress of Downtown's construction projects in April. Some projects are moving faster than others, but progress is definitely being made.

The Southbank's next major urban infill project on the horizon is scheduled to break ground before this Summer.  The Chase Properties, Inc development is expected to be under construction for 18 months before opening its doors in late 2008/early 2009.

Landmar has finally released renderings of The Shipyards project. 

Water & Laura Streets

   

Project details:
Type: Mixed use: Residential, retail, office (multiple towers phased)
Location: Northbank CBD
Status: Indefinately delayed
Floors: 25 office tower & (2) 8 story condo buildings
Height: varies
Units: n/a
Office space: 0
Retail space: 500,000sf.
Developer: Sleiman Enterprises
Architect: n/a
Website: n/a
estimated costs: $250 million