A major point of interest during the meeting was the proposal to activate the historic boardwalk area. The Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) initiated discussions about modernizing the boardwalk ordinance, unchanged since the 1940s, to introduce a pilot program for diverse uses over a two to five-year period. The proposal aims to enhance the boardwalk’s appeal by allowing pop-up retail, mobile food vendors, fitness classes, live performances, community art, and seasonal events. The initiative seeks to maintain flexibility, drawing lessons from the city’s recent outdoor dining endeavors.

Council members discussed the potential of the approximately 480-foot boardwalk space to accommodate around 30 vendor tents while ensuring ample walking areas. The conversation highlighted the importance of securing applications from nearby business owners to avoid conflicts, such as disruptions to events at local venues. There was consensus among the CRA members on the array of proposed uses, with an emphasis on public amenities like seating and signage to support the boardwalk’s activation.

Concerns were raised about the inclusion of buskers, as soliciting money for music might create an image of panhandling, which could clash with the boardwalk’s desired family-friendly atmosphere. Suggestions to engage local market operators and event planners through focus groups were proposed to gather insights and leverage their expertise in community events.

Another topic was the aesthetic improvement of chain link fencing in downtown Jacksonville Beach. The current state of the fences complies with code enforcement, but the council is exploring options for better visuals. The CRA suggested implementing fence screening, with costs ranging from $4 to $30 per linear foot, to enhance properties like Dolphin Depot. The council expressed strong support for this initiative, with suggestions to integrate the new requirements with a grant program to assist property owners financially.

The discussion extended to the condition of downtown properties. There was a focus on creating green spaces in vacant lots, alongside the potential for integrating public art into the fence screening requirements. Some members voiced concerns about using public funds to improve privately owned properties.

The council then shifted its attention to enhancing business development through a Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) initiative. The main goal is to drive foot traffic and boost sales, elevating city tax revenues. An incremental approach to sidewalk dining was proposed, starting small before potentially expanding to street ends. The intent is to avoid a chaotic entertainment atmosphere and instead foster a family-friendly environment.

Public safety was a concern, especially with the potential expansion of community activities. The council emphasized the need for adequate law enforcement staffing as the area grows and discussed the importance of avoiding special events during holiday weekends to prevent overcrowding.

The dialogue also touched on the potential for semi-permanent business uses, such as public seating areas, and the role of the city or individual businesses in providing these amenities. Concerns about adding benches and seating to the boardwalk were raised, with references to past experiences with homelessness and loitering.

The council discussed the importance of clear communication regarding project updates, with plans to implement a more straightforward communication strategy, including monthly newsletters or email blasts.