01:11The proposed redevelopment of the 6th Avenue area, located between 1st and 2nd Streets, was a focal point at the meeting. The project seeks to capitalize on a vested height allowance of 59 feet, a result of a 2004 legal settlement. This height allowance is rare in the area and offers an opportunity for creative development. The developers plan to transition from Central Business District (CBD) zoning to Residential District (RD) zoning, providing more flexibility in design and potentially benefiting the surrounding community. The redevelopment is intended to address long-standing issues of blight and subpar aesthetics, particularly between Fifth and Eighth Streets and along First Street.

08:29The project presentation emphasized pedestrian-friendly features, such as shaded walkways and enhanced landscaping, aimed at creating an inviting environment for visitors. Visual aids highlighted a design that promotes a softer interaction with pedestrians compared to traditional strip center layouts. A board member noted the potential of the project to serve new tenants and existing businesses while enhancing public access. The development team proposed a new parking garage entrance on Second Street to maintain the openness of the commercial corridor and estimated the creation of 30 to 55 public parking spaces.

15:45Questions arose regarding the use of balconies and alignment with existing paid parking policies in Jacksonville Beach. The developers expressed a desire to integrate seamlessly with the community. The meeting concluded with a consensus among board members on their support for the proposal.

29:29In addition to the 6th Avenue project, the meeting introduced the Beach Alliance, a volunteer-based initiative aimed at strengthening communication between downtown businesses and city staff. The alliance seeks to formalize sporadic meetings into a structured format, allowing business owners to voice concerns and collaborate on efforts to enhance the downtown district. The initiative is designed to address issues such as overcrowding and operational challenges during peak seasons or significant events.

The Beach Alliance will mirror the structure of a previously established art committee, focusing on collaboration and communication between business owners and city officials. Membership in the alliance will be free, with participants expected to engage with city staff. The group aims to include 15 to 20 initial participants, with the possibility of expanding to 30 to 40 members. The meetings will serve as a platform for addressing business concerns, with city staff potentially inviting relevant department heads to discuss upcoming projects that could affect local businesses.

Communication strategies for the Beach Alliance were also discussed, with suggestions for utilizing platforms like GroupMe or creating a dedicated email account for real-time communication. Branding initiatives will align with broader city efforts to enhance the downtown district’s image. The alliance will focus on businesses within designated downtown boundaries, distinguishing its role from existing mayor-led meetings with the hospitality sector.

51:24The CRA meeting also addressed the preservation of historical structures, focusing on the life-saving station and other significant buildings like the Kaza Hotel and an art deco building. The CRA plans to include the preservation efforts in the downtown redevelopment plan. The life-saving station, owned by the city, will undergo necessary repairs, such as window replacements and stucco work, without altering its historical character.

58:46Additionally, the meeting covered legislative updates affecting the CRA, including an amendment restricting new projects or debt issuance after October 1. The amendment defines a new project as one without appropriation or retained funds by the CRA. The meeting schedule was also discussed, with adjustments anticipated due to upcoming holidays and budget planning sessions. Concerns were raised about parking issues along A1A South, and ordinances regarding semi-trucks in residential areas and beach smoking bans were slated for consideration.

01:08:56Finally, the meeting highlighted maintenance issues in the community, particularly regarding trash management and landscaping in public spaces. An update on a passive park project in the south end district was provided, noting delays due to additional requirements from Beaches Energy. The CRA expressed urgency in addressing these issues to ensure the community remains vibrant and well-maintained.