![\"Jasmine](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/G\u016aD_Essence_CEO_Jasmine_Johnson_t850.jpg\" "\\"Jasmine")
<\/p>\nMiami-based cannabis producers retailer G\u016aD Essence earned the green light Feb. 20 to convert Downtown\u2019s closed Burger King into a dispensary at project cost of $408,000.<\/p>\n
The city issued a permit for S.R. Construction Services LLC of Palm City to renovate 3,837 square feet of interior space at 210 E. State St. at project cost of $408,000.<\/p>\n
The permit follows one issued Sept. 5 for interior demolition at $29,000 and one for site work Feb. 20 at $35,000.<\/p>\n
Codes-ABC Inc. of Orange Park is the private plan reviewer. RAW Architecture + Design of Fort Lauderdale is the architect.<\/p>\n
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Jasmine Johnson<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Downtown Jacksonville site gives us the opportunity to revitalize an existing building and bring new life to the urban core. We see downtown as a growing, dynamic community, and we want our first Northeast Florida dispensary to reflect that energy and accessibility,\u201d said G\u016aD Essence CEO Jasmine Johnson by email Sept. 24.<\/p>\n
She said G\u016aD Essence is a cannabis and wellness brand \u201cdedicated to cultivating premium products and meaningful community experiences.\u201d<\/p>\n
The Burger King restaurant, built on almost 1.6 acres in 1985, closed in October 2023 after more than 38 years.<\/p>\n
State Outparcel LLC of Orlando, led by Alakai Capital, bought the Downtown block June 2 for $1.5 million from Miami-based Burger King Company LLC.<\/p>\n
The site is bounded by State, Market, Union and Newnan streets.<\/p>\n
Alakai Capital Principal Nick Jones said Sept. 26 that G\u016aD Essence likes being Downtown close to residents, such as those expected in the Gateway Jax apartments planned and under construction.<\/p>\n
Johnson said in September the near-term plan is to open four flagship dispensaries in Clearwater, Jacksonville, Miami and Orlando. Tampa remains part of the plans but will open later.<\/p>\n