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Project hopes to breathe new life into vacant Jacksonville Armory building

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The three-story Gothic-Revival style brick building at the northeast corner of State and Market Streets was built more than a century ago.

The historic landmark has sat vacant since 2010.

The building used to house the local Florida National Guard.

According to the city of Jacksonville website, the building also served as the main spot for entertainment and social events, including an address by first lady Eleanor Roosevelt.

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After the Guard moved to a new facility, the Department of Recreation and Public Affairs took over the building in 1973.

It then became the headquarters for the city's parks and recreation system.

A proposed project hopes to breathe new life into the abandoned building and the entire neighborhood.

The MADE at Armory Flats project will repurpose the building into a cultural arts facility and community space.

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The buildings across Hogans Creek will transform into 100 units of affordable housing and retail space.

The property brushes up against the Emerald Necklace Trail, which neighbors believe will add to the revitalization of downtown.

The city still must finalize a deal with the project developer and get City Council to approve.