JACKSONVILLE, Fla. \u2013 For years, one of Jacksonville\u2019s most prominent pieces of riverfront land has sat empty \u2014 a quiet stretch along the Southbank just steps from Friendship Fountain.<\/p>\n
Now, that could soon change.<\/p>\n
A long-awaited development planned for the former River City Brewing site appears to be moving closer to reality, with city leaders signaling a potential groundbreaking as soon as next month.<\/p>\n
The project, led by Miami-based developer Related Group, would transform the site into a multi-million dollar development featuring nearly 400 apartment units, along with restaurants, retail space, and outdoor areas designed to connect directly to the Southbank Riverwalk.<\/p>\n
Plans show two residential towers \u2014 including one rising up to 25 stories \u2014 along with amenities such as a pool deck, fitness center, and a rooftop sky lounge overlooking the St. Johns River.<\/p>\n
Residential Tower (Copyright 2025 by WJXT News4JAX – All rights reserved.)<\/p>\n
The site itself has remained vacant since the River City Brewing restaurant was demolished years ago, despite multiple proposals and growing interest in developing the area.<\/p>\n
The current version of the project has been in the works since 2020, but like many large-scale developments, it has faced several hurdles.<\/p>\n
Rising construction costs and changing market conditions forced developers to revise the plans over time. <\/p>\n
Earlier versions of the project were scaled and redesigned after projected costs came in significantly higher than expected, leading to updated agreements with the city.<\/p>\n
Despite those challenges, recent developments suggest momentum may be building.<\/p>\n
Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan told News4JAX the developer is planning to break ground in May \u2014 a potential turning point for a project that has been closely watched by city leaders and residents alike.<\/p>\n
If construction moves forward as expected, the development could take several years to complete. Once finished, it would bring new housing and commercial activity to a highly visible stretch of the riverfront.<\/p>\n
The project is also part of a broader effort to revitalize downtown Jacksonville, particularly along the Southbank, where leaders have been focused on adding density, attracting businesses, and creating more walkable, active spaces along the river.<\/p>\n
For now, the site remains empty \u2014 but for the first time in years, there are growing signs that could soon change.<\/p>\n
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