Stars are aligned for Southbank changes
Residents want to halt proposed BRT development The turnout was much better than expected at the first gathering of Southbank residents and business owners to discuss the Jacksonville Transit Authority’s plans for Bus Rapid Transit lanes along Riverplace Boulevard. The meeting of an estimated120 people was held at the Wyndham Hotel late last month to […]
JHNSA wants to ship in sustainable tourist revenue
USS Charles Adams could float millions in economic impact To the Jacksonville Historic Naval Ship Association, the decision is a no-brainer. On the one hand, put together $2.5 million in funding to eventually generate over $4 million annually in revenue for are hotels, restaurants, shops and services. On the other hand, take too long to […]
A personal tribute to the Jacksonville Zoo’s iconic silverback gorilla
I owe my writing career to Quito, the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens’ greatest animal ambassador, who passed away last week. In August 2009 I walked up to the observation window at Quito’s enclosure and found the iconic gorilla squatting at the far end with his back to me. He was clearly distracted by something, but […]
ONE by ONE Community Agreement: Top priorities for improving public education
If you had to name the top four priorities for improving public education, what would they be? And would you be willing to work to ensure those priorities become a reality within Duval County’s public schools? More than 170 diverse community members came together on Saturday, Jan. 5 to select those four top priorities. In […]
Mellow Mushroom and We Love Avondale/RAP reach agreement in private after many public debates
Restaurant aiming for August opening By Steve DiMattia Resident Community News The two sides debating conditions under which to build a Mellow Mushroom restaurant in the Shoppes of Avondale reached a compromise behind closed doors after nine months of public disagreements. Mellow Mushroom owner John Valentino said he is now aiming for a mid August […]
St. Johns Avenue “S-curve” receives drainage improvements that should fix flooding
$87,000 roadwork project expected to be completed by end of February When it rains it doesn’t just pour, it floods into Vance Shrum’s yard. “They’ve re-paved the road so often that it’s 6 to 8 inches above the original curve line. That has narrowed the entrance to the drain line, so it can’t handle the […]
JEA’s Riverside project delayed until at least March
$3.69 million Water Main Improvement Project will bring better water pressure By Steve DiMattia Resident Community News Some Riverside area residents who were hoping for improved water pressure to start the New Year will have to wait a little longer. Jacksonville Electric Authority’s Water Main Improvement Project, which was originally scheduled to begin in January, […]
Goozlepipe & Guttyworks construction under way
By Steve DiMattia Resident Community News The large crane towering over 914 King St. in Riverside signaled the start of construction for Goozlepipe & Guttyworks restaurant. “Depending on weather delays, particularly rain during basement construction, we hope to be substantially complete in nine months. Sometime in October would be my guess [for opening],” said Ed […]
