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Mixed-use development expected to transform Baymeadows Road in Jacksonville

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — A major construction project is days away from starting on busy Baymeadows road on the Southside.

This vacant property is being transformed into a mixed-use development and a hotel.

Four mixed use buildings and a 120-room hotel are slated to fill the space. The city council approved the 30 plus million-dollar project in 2018.

T'Nesha Blue lives in the area and tells us the project will open a world of shopping opportunities for neighbors.

"It'd probably be within walking distance," said Blue. "For a lot of people, it will be pretty close."

We spoke to councilman Danny Becton, who spearheaded the project in local government.

"Long time coming. It's just super exciting!" said Jacksonville City Councilman Becton.

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We asked Becton about the impact the development could have on crime in the area.

JSO crime mapping shows 52 records of violent crime within half a mile in the last six months, and 100 records of violence in the same time frame.

"Certainly, as economic activity becomes very positive, crime has a tendency of not wanting to be in those areas," Becton said.

In anticipation of more visitors to the area, he also tells us they're planning traffic enhancements with FDOT. Welcomed news to neighbors who anticipate a change in traffic patterns.

"We already have a decent flow, so it's going to make a change," said Blue.

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