Two big steps for downtown development in Jacksonville

By Jim Reed

Recently, Mayor Alvin Brown made announcements concerning two important initiatives to promote development in downtown Jacksonville. 

First is the IBM Smarter Cities initiative, the results of which will be presented to the newly formed Downtown Investment Authority (see below) in a few weeks.  From the COJ website announcing the preliminary results of the IBM Smarter Cities study:

“Preliminary results were unveiled at City Hall Friday, casting a strong focus on the need for mixed-use redevelopment while suggesting that the mayor’s plan for a Downtown Investment Authority, authorized earlier this month through a unanimous City Council vote, marks a positive step forward. The IBM team made comparisons to best practices in other cities and advocated for Jacksonville officials to increase signage, better utilize historic buildings and create a stronger sense of identity to promote Downtown to attract visitors and business people.

“Investments Downtown will create the action and energy that will draw new talent, new ideas and innovation,” said the mayor. “A vibrant Downtown will help to boost property values, grow career-building jobs and develop a stronger identity to brand our city in the global economy. I commend IBM’s work on this issue and look forward to continuing to work with all the stakeholders for solutions to make Jacksonville the most active and competitive city that it has ever been.””

The second announcement informed of the formation of the Downtown Investment Authority, which will replace similar boards that have largely been ineffective in promoting downtown development.  Introducing the new Downtown Investment Authority, the mayor said in an e-mail:

“Through this inclusive approach, we will transform our Downtown into the heart of Northeast Florida. As businesses, consumers and public servants join together in this common effort, we will succeed. Make no mistake about it – unlocking the full potential of Downtown Jacksonville must be a common cause. If our city has indeed reached that point – of committing to truly unlocking Downtown’s potential – let us join hands, roll up our sleeves, and pursue this goal with vigor, vision and a shared, steadfast resolve.”

It has yet to be disclosed how the Downtown Investment Authority and the IBM suggestions will be funded and implemented.  However, these are important first steps as the revitalization of the downtown area is vital to maintaining a thriving city that is attractive and desirable to growing and relocating businesses.