DIA approves multi-million dollar Northbank shopping, dining, living project

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Michael Greene was drawn to the St. Johns Riverfront during his lunch break Friday. He enjoys the water, peace, and tranquility.

That’s exactly what Jeff Fuqua, an Atlanta developer took note of. He’s got big plans for Jacksonville’s Northbank.

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After tearing down the Times Union building, Fuqua’s team plans to create One Riverside Avenue, where people will live, shop, and dine.

The Downtown Investment Authority has approved the $182 million project. It would revamp the area of the former Times Union building.

”As long as it’s good for the community I feel like it’s a plus,” Greene said.

He’s on board with the idea.

The dining part of One Riverside Avenue will include a riverside restaurant.

Fuqua has taken on some big projects in the past. A notable one is Atlanta’s Battery at Truist Park, which is connected to the new Braves stadium, drawing in tens of thousands of fans.

DIA board members gave Fuqua the green light in a meeting Thursday, approving over $31 million in incentives for the project, with the City of Jacksonville investing 17 percent.

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”I like this little part here,” Greene said, pointing to the riverfront, suggesting, “If they could open it up to the water just a little bit more, I’d like to see that – a place in a city where you can get peace.

”The plan also includes revamping McCoy’s Creek. Some inspiration comes from the Bricktown Canal and the Chicago Riverwalk.

Greene agrees — some form of a river walk would be nice. “I have been to San Antonio, and the Riverwalk there was nice, so if they put something like that here I think that’ll bring more travelers here to enjoy that kind of scenery,” he said.

According to the plan, Fuqua will start demolition of the former Times-Union building no later than June 30, 2022.

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