Neighbors sound off about Adventure Landing’s future at open house, request mixed-use design

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Dozens of Jacksonville Beach neighbors showed up at an open house Wednesday to discuss the future of Adventure Landing on Beach Boulevard.

Developers presented their plans, which included an apartment complex complete with 427 units averaging 800 square feet in size, parking lot, and a conservation area.

Action News Jax reported in June when the attraction announced it would close at the end of October.

Adventure Landing’s parent company filed for bankruptcy in December 2019. The company’s westside location closed in June.

The attraction offered family entertainment for 26 years and families at Wednesday’s meeting discussed a need for family-friendly activities.

“It’s been a great place to go this summer. I’m devastated it’s leaving. But it is what it is,” Meghan Carlin, a mom of two, said.

Other concerned residents brought up adding a mixed-use option with restaurants, shops, and parks.

“If it’s just an apartment, it’s not going to serve a purpose to the community,” Kelly Canada said.

The developers said over the next six months they will continue to develop plans and submit them for approval with the city.

“All of the communities at the beaches need affordable places for folks to live,” Steve Diebenow, one of the developers, said. “Not everyone can afford to buy a home.”

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