New vision could bring life to Jacksonville's riverfront

A partnership between Rimrock Devlin and Debartolo is hoping to bring a hotel, apartments and restaurants to the prime riverfront property where the old courthouse and old city hall stands.

“I live at the plaza, so I look at this building every day. So to see something pretty, that would be awesome,” said Jackie Rebels, who lives nearby.

The plan would include a five-story luxury apartment complex, a nine-story hotel, and 10,000 square feet of space for restaurants.

The two riverfront buildings have been vacant for years. In 2011, it was recommended that the old courthouse site be turned into a convention center, but less than a mile away at the site of the Shipyards is where Jacksonville Jaguars owner Shad Khan said he wants the convention center and hotel.

Rimrock said it is also partnering with Khan’s development group on that project.

Rimrock Devlin’s manager Micah Linton said, “The St. Johns River is a primary component of downtown’s identity, and our vision will engage the river as a focal point, while also creating a mixed-use environment that is convenient and walkable.”

“It gives you some hope that downtown can come back,” said Karen Gill, who was walking nearby.

Action News Jax reached out to Rimrock Devlin, but they declined comment.

Action News Jax asked the downtown investment authority if they are considering all these proposals. They sent us an email that said they will evaluate the three proposals submitted Aug. 1. The evaluation process will end Sept. 14.

Cox Media Group