10. Cowford Chophouse

The restoration of the historic Bostwick Building continues to make progress. Forking Amazing Restaurants intends to convert the structure into an upscale steakhouse restaurant called the Cowford Chophouse. When complete in 2017, the two floor dining establishment will feature a rooftop lounge with spectacular views of the city.

11. Elena Flats

Jack Meeks and his wife, JoAnn Tredennick, continue to move forward on the renovation of the Elena Flats building at 122 E. Duval St. Work is underway to convert the former rooming house into four market-rate apartment units. Barring unforeseen complications, the apartments should be ready for rent in 2017.

12. Broadstone River House Apartments

Building foundation work continues on the Alliance Residential Company’s Broadstone River House Apartments project on the Southbank. The 265-unit multifamily project will replace a 3.7-acre surface parking lot adjacent to the Duval County School Board building.

For more information: https://www.allresco.com/archives/2088

13. State & Union Street Resurfacing Project

The Florida Department of Transportation is investing $13 million in the resurfacing of State and Unions Streets and the Mathews Expressway between I-95 and MLK, Jr. Parkway. The 4-mile project includes repairing and replacing sidewalks, upgrades to handicap-accessible sidewalk ramps, crosswalks and repair to storm drain pipes and inlets. Also included in this project is the conversion of Main Street, between State and Union Streets, from a one-way to a two-way street. This project is anticipated to be completed in the spring of 2017.

For more information: https://myfdotnefl.wordpress.com/2015/11/16/state-street-union-street-and-mathews-expressway-resurfacing-project-2/

14. FSCJ Dormitory

The Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ) is in the process of converting the long vacant Lerner Shops Building into student housing. When complete, FSCJ plans to house up to 60 students in the structure at 20 W. Adams Street. In addition, FSCJ plans to open a “Panera-style” culinary café on the building’s ground floor that will act as showcase for the school’s culinary program.

For more information: https://www.bizjournals.com/jacksonville/blog/morning-edition/2016/02/fscj-student-housing-capitalizes-on-larger-trends.html

15. EverBank Field Flex Field and Amphitheater

Vertical construction on a new flex field and amphitheater at EverBank Field is finally underway. The 5,500-seat amphitheater and flex field, which will be used for an indoor practice facility, as well as an events and entertainment venue, have been portrayed as a “game changer” by Jacksonville Jaguars owner Shad Khan.

For more information: https://www.bizjournals.com/jacksonville/news/2016/03/17/jaguars-amphitheater-flex-field-construction-to.html

16. Bold City Brewery Downtown

Bold City Brewery is in the process of opening a new brewery and taproom at 109 E. Bay Street, next to the Cowford Chophouse. The new three-barrel system downtown location is intended to give brewers a chance to try new recipes and brew small, single batches.

For more information: https://jacksonville.com/business/2015-12-01/story/bold-city-adding-downtown-brewery

17. Riverside YMCA

The former Yates Family YMCA at 221 Riverside Avenue is being demolished to make room for future infill development. The 2-acre site is being marketed as ideal for hotel, retail, residential and mixed-use. The YMCA is considering offers that would include the construction of a 300-space parking structure that would be dedicated to the Winston Family YMCA.

For more information: https://www.jaxdailyrecord.com/showstory.php?Story_id=548462

18. Gate Petroleum

Several buildings have been recently razed at the SW corner of Park and Forest Streets in preparation of a new Gate gas station. When complete, the gas station will feature 20 fueling positions and 6,401-square-foot convenience store with outdoor seating.

For more information: https://www.jaxdailyrecord.com/showstory.php?Story_id=547270

19. Tossgreen

Local healthful fast-casual restaurant chain Tossgreen, plans to open a 1,500 square foot restaurant on the ground-floor of the SunTrust Tower in spring 2017. Offering breakfast and lunch, the restaurant will include outdoor seating along Laura Street.

For more information: https://www.jaxdailyrecord.com/showstory.php?Story_id=548927&searchtext=tossgreen

20. LIVE Bakery and Bar

The Live Bakery and Bar will be opening soon at 327 and 331 East Bay Street. According to the Jax Daily Record, “Owner John Ferra said Monday the bar area would offer seafood, such as oysters and crab legs, and operate more as a sports lounge. He expects to open about 4 p.m. and close late.”. In addition, Live Bakery will be an offshoot a Greek-based bakery operated by Maria Ferra at 5570 Florida Mining Boulevard South. The bakery will specialize in bread and dessert products. The 200 seat restaurant, bar and bakery will employ 15 people when it is completed in six to twelve months.

For more information: https://www.jaxdailyrecord.com/showstory.php?Story_id=549171