New Gas Station Proposed for Downtown's Main Street

[tufsu1]

Well, let's not forget the BP at State and Davis,

that closed recently

[thelakelander]

I'm chiming in a bit late here but I am in agreeance with those that say the idea of a station at this intersection is fine but we just need to make sure that it fits in with what the pedestrian experience on Main should be or is going to be.

I think the major issue is that the current zoning code allows for the owner to build a gas station.  It doesn't force him to make the gas station creative or "forward thinking" like the example you are referring to and what many on this board have expressed a desire to have.  Perhaps the City should look into more of a form-based zoning code to address these issues and begin to implement the growth principals we want downtown to exhibit.  Miami just finished doing something similar.

The site falls within the Downtown Overlay's boundaries.  There are some urban design site related issues that they have to comply with. Because the plan currently does not, it has been recommended for denial.  MJ's position is to see the city and Bahri work together to create a site layout that meets the overlay's requirements.

[Springfield Girl]

I don't think anyone here is trying to tell anyone what they can or can't build. Like Zoo said, we just wish the folks in Jacksonville were a little more forward thinking and creative. I'm sure there is a lot of demand for a gas station because what we have now is substandard. It's crazy to those of us that see so clearly, the fact that if you run a higher class business you would attract more customers but alas, the business owners in Jax are quite satisfied with the singles and blunt crowd. I Live close to the Shell On Main, The Shell on 8th and the station at 3rd and Main but like many others I won't use any of them. If the new station gets built and they keep it clean and don't allow loitering and panhandling I would use it but I'm not holding my breath. My prediction is it will look just like it's neighbor one block away.

Im not meaning to poke fun, but really, how 'forward thinking' is it to think that the poor need to be driven out to make way for rich folks?

This idea has been around for a pretty long time.  

The forward thinking reference was aimed at not building a suburban style gas station (one story footprint) Downtown, one block away from another of the same. This is Jacksonville though, where not much thought goes into planning and many things don't make sense. I'm not against a gas station, it just makes me sad that two, in two blocks Downtown makes news. Call me underwhelmed.

[thelakelander]

Not much going on these days but we try and cover most new projects in the urban core, especially ones that can potentially replace vacant surface lots.  However, I did notice today that Riverplace Blvd is being resurfaced.  I wonder if this job is being done in coordination with JTA's proposed DT BRT plans or if they'll rip up the street and repave again a year or so from now?

[stjr]

However, I did notice today that Riverplace Blvd is being resurfaced.  I wonder if this job is being done in coordination with JTA's proposed DT BRT plans or if they'll rip up the street and repave again a year or so from now?

Riverplace was almost un-drivable on my last ride over it. I thought surely they were going to pave it right after the Strand and Peninsula projects were finished.  Surprised the residents and developer didn't push harder for it.   But, better late than never.  Forget waiting for BRT.  May (hopefully) never happen.

[duvaldude08]

There is definately a need for another service station downtown. Aside from shell, the only choice you have is to go to the BP on Prudential Drive. Another gas station in the core is much needed. Not impressed with the design though.

[heights unknown]

"I am sorry this just makes me laugh.  You guys want mass transit running up the ying yang around here and a gas station, say it with me, a GAS STATION is news around here.  Come on.  I want the downtown to be more vibrant as well, but this truly puts things in perspective.  Some want all these stores that would never consider our downtown because a gas station is a big deal around here.  Many of you are just gonna think I am a hater, but geez.  Two of the things reviewed in the last 6 months on this site are a Dollar General and a Gas station."


Ha ha ha! True.

I have to admit; it is funny, but, this is my City and if a gas station is all there is to talk or hoopla about, then it's progress and it is what it is!

"HU"

[heights unknown]

I believe, if I am correct, that there was a gas station in that same spot "back in the day," and it was razed sometime in the late 80's (I think).  It's good that a convenience store is going along with the package; downtown needs it.

"HU"

[Lunican]

New gas station, convenience store approved for downtown Jacksonville
12-pump station will be between State and Union streets at Main

By Kevin Turner
A new convenience store and gas station downtown on Main Street was approved today by the Jacksonville Economic Development Commission.

The new station, to include a Chevron-branded gas station with 12 pumps, a convenience store and a sandwich shop with a walk-up window, will straddle the island between State Street and Union Street.

When complete, the new convenience store will be across the intersection of Main Street and Union Street from an existing Shell station. The convenience store is to be near the corner of Main Street and Union Street, with pumps located near the Main Street and State Street. The land currently is vacant.

Full Article:
http://jacksonville.com/business/2010-08-12/story/new-gas-station-convenience-store-approved-downtown

[fieldafm]

Looks pretty good to me... thoughts?

[fieldafm]

Meeks noted that he was excited about the new station because he lives in Springfield and finds nearby gas stations to be less than appealing to him. Meeks also said he hopes the station’s pedestrian improvements will help unite downtown and Springfield with a pedestrian corridor.

Great quote.  Exactly why I think a walgreens/CVS/Rite Aid retrofit would fit so well at the Park View Inn site!

Bahri’s $1.975 million project, to include 4,392 square feet of retail space, is also to include about $96,000 in developer-funded improvements, including a Jacksonville Transportation Authority kiosk; awnings over nearby sidewalks to encourage walking; palm tree landscaping; removal of a street entrance; directional signage; a bike rack and an outdoor seating area.

[brainstormer]

I like the latest look and design.  This version is much better than the original proposal.  I also like the developer's style and high expectations.

I'm with you on the Walgreens/CVS.  Retail in this area should attract downtown folks, Springfield residents, FSCJ students and staff and the thousands of vehicles that pass by everyday.  It surprises me that this strip has remained so desolate. 

[thelakelander]

This what happens when we work with people. Even non-sexy uses like gas stations can turn out nice with good urban design.

[vicupstate]

Very positive design and a HUGE improvement over the original.  Hopefully, it will force the Shell station to clean up it's act, at least somewhat.   

[Non-RedNeck Westsider]

I'm not saying that it doesn't "look" very appealing, but I make the walk from the core to the mexican restaurant quite often.  It takes me right through the middle of the group that congregates on state / main, but really they haven't asked for anything in the year and a half I've been doing this.  After a few trips, we just nodded, said good morning and went on our way, no harm no foul.

And yes, I'm the same person who posted that I don't give shit to panhandlers, but these guys are hangin' out where they can and to date they haven't been any problems.