Neighborhood News

All the latest news from the neighborhoods in our coverage areas.

Recovered COVID-19 patients donate blood to assist critically ill at Baptist

On April 20, Baptist Health began accepting plasma donations from recovered Coronavirus patients to use in the treatment of current COVID-19 patients. The plasma from recovered patients contains antibodies, or proteins in the blood, that can attack the virus and lessen its severity.  The trial is a partnership with Mayo Clinic and LifeSouth Community Blood […]

Half-cent sales tax to improve public schools on ballot in November

Lovingly referring to it as “the half-cent investment referendum,” At-Large Group 4 City Councilman Matt Carlucci said he is “very pleased,” the Jacksonville City Council and Mayor Lenny Curry are behind having it placed before voters on the November 3, 2020 ballot. “The bottom line is great cities have great schools,” said Carlucci. “We are […]

Hart Bridge demo impact lessened by closures

Hart Bridge demo impact lessened by closures

Demolition of the Hart Bridge ramps is progressing steadily Downtown near the sports and entertainment district that includes TIAA Bank Field. It’s bringing with it all the attendant ramp closures and traffic rerouting, but people who report to work in the area every day said the recent state and local closures have helped to lessen […]

Tree planting brings renewal to Cathedral District

Tree planting brings renewal to Cathedral District

While the world seems to be on pause, the City of Jacksonville’s plan to plant more than 60 trees in right of ways within the City’s Cathedral District brought a sense of renewal at Easter time. The plan comes free of charge to the Cathedral District as part of a larger plan by the City […]

Willow Branch canal to see improvements

Willow Branch canal to see improvements

The City of Jacksonville has begun a program to rehabilitate Willow Branch canal that will hopefully finish by this fall. Construction is one of the few industries that haven’t been held up with the Coronavirus closures, and neighbors say the City is moving forward with replacing the bulkhead and plans to plant new trees. The […]

Ortega Point utility project taking shape

Ortega Point utility project taking shape

Heart Utilities of Jax crews were hard at work April 29, installing historic-style “acorn” street lights as part of a neighborhood-driven project to underground utilities in Ortega Point North. The subcontractor for the JEA is making progress in phases, as work to install new electric conduit, transformers, cables and manholes continues. Construction crews have remained […]

Connecting By Caring Campaign: A creative look at the Paying it Forward principle

Connecting By Caring Campaign: A creative look at the Paying it Forward principle

It’s no secret the Coronavirus crisis and its economic fallout has thrown everyone for a loop. Many small businesses within Jacksonville’s historic districts are struggling. Unfortunately, a few may not survive.

Mayor to allow gradual opening of nonessential businesses

Mayor to allow gradual opening of nonessential businesses

Jacksonville Mayor Lenny Curry is eager to take the next step to get his city “gradually and cautiously” back to work. During a ZOOM press conference April 28, Curry announced that he is amending his executive order to allow Jacksonville’s beaches to be open all day starting on Monday, May 4. He is also repealing […]