Let's hope this goes through!
http://jacksonville.com/news/metro/2013-03-22/story/jessie-ball-dupont-fund-wants-buy-haydon-burns-library-downtown
This would be fantastic!
Although I was hoping it would turn in to a Reading Terminal Market-style market like in Philly.
http://www.readingterminalmarket.org/
Maybe there's another location downtown that could house something like it.
don't care as long as a dead block is activated again
Quote from: DNAustin on March 22, 2013, 02:32:51 PM
This would be fantastic!
Although I was hoping it would turn in to a Reading Terminal Market-style market like in Philly.
http://www.readingterminalmarket.org/
Maybe there's another location downtown that could house something like it.
The Landing?
Looks like there are several hoops to be jumped through yet. Below I am posting a link to the foundation site themselves and what they have to say about the offer on the old library. I think it is great that a potential use for the building has been found, but I have one question that I think is worth asking. If indeed site members here do think that some amount of planning should go into future efforts downtown, my question is will the Haydon Burns Library become another core effort that while doing good will also perhaps inadvertently add to the plethora of downtown efforts aimed towards the homeless population? Now before folks go "hatin" on me for just asking the question, let me for the record say that I support charitable efforts and support helping the homeless. :) In checking the DuPont site it appears that this building would be housing the offices for a number of non profits efforts, so will we further be adding to the buildings housing help organizations in the core in a way that will impact the marketability of the core? Outside of those working in the building, how many patrons to local business would this effort bring. Most people in need of assistance are not going to shop and eat dowtown. Just a question, any thoughts?
http://www.dupontfund.org/
Quotehaydon-burns-library-jacksonville-fl
The Jessie Ball duPont Fund has signed an agreement to acquire the former Haydon Burns Library building in downtown Jacksonville and convert it into an office complex for philanthropic and nonprofit organizations.
“We are very excited about this opportunity,†said Sherry Magill, president of the Jessie Ball duPont Fund. “It has the potential to greatly benefit the nonprofit sector, invigorate downtown and enhance the legacy of Jessie Ball duPont, who cared so much about the nonprofit organizations in this community.â€
Terms of the agreement are not being disclosed. The Jessie Ball duPont Fund will spend several months conducting a due diligence review and can withdraw from the purchase agreement for any reason during that period. The building currently is owned by a group of private investors.
As envisioned, the building would become home to the Jessie Ball duPont Fund as well as the offices of other local nonprofit organizations. How many and which nonprofits would be housed in the building has not yet been determined, pending the outcome of multiple analyses to be performed in the coming months. The building also would include common spaces that could be used for meetings and other gatherings.
The Jessie Ball duPont Fund has experience with multi-tenant nonprofit centers through its work in Wilmington, Delaware, where the Fund was a partner in establishing the Community Service Building in the 1990s. Today, 73 nonprofit organizations share space in the 12-story building in the heart of downtown Wilmington.
Many other communities have similar facilities. In Dallas, for example, the Meadows Foundation acquired 24 acres of land in a rundown historic district and has renovated the area and created an expansive campus of nonprofit organizations. Such projects often create new hubs of economic activity for their communities, as well as benefitting the tenants through stable rents and efficient use of space.
The Haydon Burns Library building was built in 1965 in a style known as “mid-century modern.†The three-story “fins†that surround the building make it a distinctive local landmark. The architect, Taylor Hardwick, also designed Friendship Fountain and many other Jacksonville buildings.
The building ceased functions as the city’s main library in 2005 when the downtown library on Hemming Plaza opened, providing more space and upgraded systems.
The Jessie Ball duPont Fund works to expand access and create opportunity through grants to more than 330 eligible organizations identified by Mrs. duPont in her will. The Fund has assets of more than $270 million and has awarded more than $329 million in grants since 1977
I hope it does not become just a self contained office complex. I hope there is some degree of street level activation. A shop or three and some sidewalk tables go a long way the more blocks that have them.
it will be a 9-5 Mon-Fri space. Dead on the weekends and evenings. Nothing like a Latitude 30 being on that corner.
Non profit offices and a day center for the homeless??????
Quote from: JeffreyS on March 22, 2013, 03:11:31 PM
I hope it does not become just a self contained office complex. I hope there is some degree of street level activation. A shop or three and some sidewalk tables go a long way the more blocks that have them.
This is part of what I am getting at JeffreyS. While having the building in use is desirable, the use should be of some consideration. One of the main sticking issues for downtown has been the homeless facilities, again, not judging the efforts but taking an unemotional look at how services impact the core. If we add a greater emphasis to social services, is that going to translate to the type of activity needed to strengthen and grow the core? Certainly the employees working there would be a help but what of the clients? The original ideas for the structure were exciting, the possible specialty grocer and shops etc. This puts activity in the building but does not speak to creating excitement, shopping or interesting venues downtown.
For anyone concerned about the proposed use, this quote provides a direction for additional research:
QuoteThe Jessie Ball duPont Fund has experience with multi-tenant nonprofit centers through its work in Wilmington, Delaware, where the Fund was a partner in establishing the Community Service Building in the 1990s. Today, 73 nonprofit organizations share space in the 12-story building in the heart of downtown Wilmington.
Many other communities have similar facilities. In Dallas, for example, the Meadows Foundation acquired 24 acres of land in a rundown historic district and has renovated the area and created an expansive campus of nonprofit organizations.Such projects often create new hubs of economic activity for their communities, as well as benefitting the tenants through stable rents and efficient use of space.
What type of street level scene exists around Wilmington's Community Service Building and Meadows Foundation's properties in Dallas? Whatever they are, is probably what this use will end up resembling.
Quote from: thelakelander on March 22, 2013, 03:46:26 PM
For anyone concerned about the proposed use, this quote provides a direction for additional research:
QuoteThe Jessie Ball duPont Fund has experience with multi-tenant nonprofit centers through its work in Wilmington, Delaware, where the Fund was a partner in establishing the Community Service Building in the 1990s. Today, 73 nonprofit organizations share space in the 12-story building in the heart of downtown Wilmington.
Many other communities have similar facilities. In Dallas, for example, the Meadows Foundation acquired 24 acres of land in a rundown historic district and has renovated the area and created an expansive campus of nonprofit organizations.Such projects often create new hubs of economic activity for their communities, as well as benefitting the tenants through stable rents and efficient use of space.
What type of street level scene exists around Wilmington's Community Service Building and Meadows Foundation's properties in Dallas? Whatever they are, is probably what this use will end up resembling.
How can we find out Ennis?
Google street view on Google Maps or Google Earth would be a good start. All you need is the address. In the Wilmington case, which I'm pulling up now, the address is:
100 W 10th St # 201, Wilmington, DE 19801
building's website: http://www.csbcorp.org/
Here's the Wilmington building on the left. The building on the right is Dupont's headquarters. It appears to have a Wachovia (probably Wells Fargo now) branch at street level with non-profits occupying upper level spaces.
(http://photos.metrojacksonville.com/Other/mi/i-KrrddmM/0/L/Wilmington-L.jpg)
Considering the declining occupancy rates of many downtown office towers, this is a good way to fill large amounts of spaces that single companies may no longer need.
Wow, you guys are awesome, ask and ye shall receive. lol The Google view that Stephen found seems to be showing a structure in a place not particularly vibrant as far as what we might look for downtown. The cbscorp link shows a listing for many fine organizations in a much larger building. I don't see anything among the names that speaks to any type of retail activity on the first floor. So it would appear we are looking at an office complex taking up the entire library building which is only a few floors to begin with. It would be nice if some space on the ground floor could be carved out for a restaurant or retail space. There must be something in the non profit community that would work, like a retail oriented restaurant in tandem with Clara White mission, on the order of what the Potters house offers which could create activity during the week and on the weekend. Perhaps even claiming some traffic customer from FBC and other core churches on Sunday. Thoughts? Taking a look now at the other photo's posted by Ennis.
Quote from: stephendare on March 22, 2013, 04:00:09 PM
Quote from: Cheshire Cat on March 22, 2013, 03:56:13 PM
Quote from: thelakelander on March 22, 2013, 03:46:26 PM
For anyone concerned about the proposed use, this quote provides a direction for additional research:
QuoteThe Jessie Ball duPont Fund has experience with multi-tenant nonprofit centers through its work in Wilmington, Delaware, where the Fund was a partner in establishing the Community Service Building in the 1990s. Today, 73 nonprofit organizations share space in the 12-story building in the heart of downtown Wilmington.
Many other communities have similar facilities. In Dallas, for example, the Meadows Foundation acquired 24 acres of land in a rundown historic district and has renovated the area and created an expansive campus of nonprofit organizations.Such projects often create new hubs of economic activity for their communities, as well as benefitting the tenants through stable rents and efficient use of space.
What type of street level scene exists around Wilmington's Community Service Building and Meadows Foundation's properties in Dallas? Whatever they are, is probably what this use will end up resembling.
How can we find out Ennis?
Here you go. The Meadows Foundation is marked by the red tab.
(https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-snc6/181071_10151516131873979_678013066_n.jpg)
I see a ton of new infill housing units in this overall aerial. Let me dig into this one on Google Earth.
Quote from: stephendare on March 22, 2013, 04:10:54 PM
This is the streetview from the corner of Greenwood and Skiles (oddly enough---doug do you have prominent texan family branches?)
(https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-snc6/229400_10151516145078979_1656335633_n.jpg)
Looks to be mostly parking lots in an area more open than the old library.
New Baylor University Medical Center LRT station and some new TOD about four blocks away from the "A" on Stephen's aerial. In Stephen's aerial, you can see the LRT station's courtyard at the bottom right.
(http://www.dart.org/newsroom/greenlinemediakit/images/preview/bayloruniversitymedicalcenterstation.jpg)
Quote from: stephendare on March 22, 2013, 04:22:03 PM
its not infill housing thougn. There is a bit of infill, but they are office buildings, each of which houses a not for profit.
It was mentioned they took 24 acres of land. That should equal out to several urban city blocks. This area (on the edge of Deep Ellum) looks to be a hot spot for new development, judging from the close proximity of new infill housing. It's quote possible, so infill has occurred on some parcels while others still await redevelopment.
Quote from: stephendare on March 22, 2013, 04:22:03 PM
its not infill housing thougn. There is a bit of infill, but they are office buildings, each of which houses a not for profit.
This is what I was looking for Stephen. Like attracts like. We have a bunch, perhaps too much in the way of non profit/social service buildings downtown already. I keep looking at the initial drawing that Stephen posted with this article. That looks like a vibrant exciting corner for downtown. The rest just doesn't fit the bill unless they would consider a mixed use for the ground floor.
Based on what visuals of the Dallas and Wilmington examples, I'm fine with this proposed use of a long vacant building. All it really needs is some ground level commercial use (like the Wilmington example) and interaction with the surrounding sidewalks and it should be a plus.
Quote from: thelakelander on March 22, 2013, 04:22:59 PM
New Baylor University Medical Center LRT station and some new TOD about four blocks away from the "A" on Stephen's aerial. In Stephen's aerial, you can see the LRT station's courtyard at the bottom right.
(http://www.dart.org/newsroom/greenlinemediakit/images/preview/bayloruniversitymedicalcenterstation.jpg)
You know what Ennis, this looks like what we have talked about in the past when discussing moving our social service programs and buildings to an area outside of the core. This is a social service complex. What we see in this image is a great representation of what could be done in Jacksonville, but not in our core. Would love to see the Dupont's invest in creating a seed environment via the purchase of several acres here outside the core to create such an effort. To me the key to making the Dupont effort most desirable downtown is allowing retail on the ground floor.
The Dallas example is actually pretty nice. There's some great restoration work and well maintained green space around the place. This neighborhood certainly doesn't look blighted now. Give me a few moments to upload some pics.
Latitude 30 is dead. They decided to move on from the Haydon Burns.
So downtown Jacksonville gets a giant hub for social services..........awesome......
Dallas example in 1995 (top image) and 2012 (bottom image):
(http://photos.metrojacksonville.com/Other/mi/i-XHphs3k/0/XL/Dallas%20aerials-XL.jpg)
Meadows Foundation's actual office is highlighted in red. As mentioned, I suspect if they acquired 24 acres, the surrounding blocks are...or were a part of their holdings at one point.
I don't quite see how a single use building with multiple tenants from the non-profit world suddenly equates to 'homeless center'.
Dupont's center in Delaware includes tenants like the leukemia socity, the BAR, boy scouts, american diabetes association, YMCA, sierra club, several financial companies, teach for america... etc.
Just like coworking spaces spark collaboration, a non-profit space could do the same. Non-profits need partners more than anyone, and clustering works the same in the non-profit world as it works in the technology world and others.
Image 1: The front facade of the Meadows Foundation building on Swiss Street.
Image 2: Looking towards the Meadows Foundation at the intersection of Swiss and Oak. The Meadows Foundation building is on the left behind the lady pushing the stroller.
Image 3: If this area was blighted when Meadows acquired 24 acres, it sure isn't now. Here are the old homes immediately across Swiss Street. They've all been lushly landscaped, preserved and are now occupied by various non-profits like Preservation Dallas.
Image 4: New infill at Live Oak and Skiles Street. This is one block west of the back of Meadows main building (the parking lot shot Stephen posted). That parking lot, was an old warehouse that was demolished in 2001. My guess is it will be a site of future infill.
(http://photos.metrojacksonville.com/Other/mi/i-wShJc5c/0/X3/Dallas-X3.jpg)
Jeffrey I don't think anyone said this effort equated to a "homeless center". The focus of the structure is social services. I agree partnering with a mixed use for the structure could be a win. Stephen, I would also agree that the Dupont organization seems to be a really fine organization and as you put it "thoughtful". Frankly I think your white paper ideas is "excellent"!
Sometimes all it takes is constructive input to turn something nice into something exciting.
Quote from: fieldafm on March 22, 2013, 04:48:19 PM
I don't quite see how a single use building with multiple tenants from the non-profit world suddenly equates to 'homeless center'.
Dupont's center in Delaware includes tenants like the leukemia socity, the BAR, boy scouts, american diabetes association, YMCA, sierra club, several financial companies, teach for america... etc.
Just like coworking spaces spark collaboration, a non-profit space could do the same. Non-profits need partners more than anyone, and clustering works the same in the non-profit world as it works in the technology world and others.
Pretty much. Btw, here is some information on their remaining 22 acres:
(http://www.preservationdallas.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/WilsonHouseExterior2.jpg)
QuoteThe Wilson Historic District, owned and operated by The Meadows Foundation, encompasses 22 acres of turn-of-the-century Victorian houses and new, compatible buildings. The district is unique not only for its architecture, boasting the largest collection of late nineteenth-century houses in Dallas, but also in its current use as a model incubator project for local non-profit organizations. The district is recognized as a City of Dallas Landmark District and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
http://www.preservationdallas.org/who-we-are/wilson-block/
Quote from: thelakelander on March 22, 2013, 05:02:03 PM
Image 1: The front facade of the Meadows Foundation building on Swiss Street.
Image 2: Looking towards the Meadows Foundation at the intersection of Swiss and Oak. The Meadows Foundation building is on the left behind the lady pushing the stroller.
Image 3: If this area was blighted when Meadows acquired 24 acres, it sure isn't now. Here are the old homes immediately across Swiss Street. They've all been lushly landscaped, preserved and are now occupied by various non-profits like Preservation Dallas.
Image 4: New infill at Live Oak and Skiles Street. This is one block west of the back of Meadows main building (the parking lot shot Stephen posted). That parking lot, was an old warehouse that was demolished in 2001. My guess is it will be a site of future infill.
(http://photos.metrojacksonville.com/Other/mi/i-wShJc5c/0/X3/Dallas-X3.jpg)
Interesting shots Ennis. What is there looks good but is certainly quite different than what they could do here. Looking at what you found here speaks well for a social service complex and perhaps affordable housing outside of the core.
I'd love somebody to do something with this building, but how many times now has its occupation or purchase been eminent?
Hope this time it actually happens, but I'll believe it when I'm standing in their lobby.
Quote from: Cheshire Cat on March 22, 2013, 05:06:07 PMInteresting shots Ennis. What is there looks good but is certainly quite different than what they could do here. Looking at what you found here speaks well for a social service complex and perhaps affordable housing outside of the core.
I thought they were proposing to turn the Haydon Burns into an office complex for philanthropic and nonprofit organizations? That's pretty much what the two examples in Dallas and Wilmington are, except the Dallas example appears to be just outside of downtown in an area like LaVilla. The Wilmington example is a highrise similar to the Ed Ball Building. The Haydon Burns structure would fall in the middle of these two examples. Nevertheless, both appear to be positives instead of negatives on the urban context surrounding them. If the Jax proposal is basing their model off these two examples, it's a plus for downtown Jacksonville.
Quote from: thelakelander on March 22, 2013, 05:12:39 PM
Quote from: Cheshire Cat on March 22, 2013, 05:06:07 PMInteresting shots Ennis. What is there looks good but is certainly quite different than what they could do here. Looking at what you found here speaks well for a social service complex and perhaps affordable housing outside of the core.
I thought they were proposing to turn the Haydon Burns into an office complex for philanthropic and nonprofit organizations? That's pretty much what the two examples in Dallas and Wilmington are, except the Dallas example appears to be just outside of downtown in an area like LaVilla. The Wilmington example is a highrise similar to the Ed Ball Building. The Haydon Burns structure would fall in the middle of these two examples. Nevertheless, both appear to be positives instead of negatives on the urban context surrounding them. If the Jax proposal is basing their model off these two examples, it's a plus for downtown Jacksonville.
True Ennis, that is what was stated. I guess the difference would be whether or not the offices are geared to serve the organization's staff or serve the community members. Perhaps even both. I am guessing that may be part of what they will determine as they move forward. As Bativac pointed out this deal is not yet done, but of all that has been suggested so far for the structure, this organization seems to have the funding to go forward with their plans.
I was thinking restaurant too Stephen. Perhaps they would consider that. How about a new take on Boomtown? I would love to be able to taste the peanut chicken again.
Quote from: stephendare on March 22, 2013, 04:10:54 PM
... and Skiles (oddly enough---doug do you have prominent texan family branches?)
No branches in Texas. We are of the West Virginia variety - with unfortunately not many branches - if ya know what I mean!
Quote from: stephendare on March 22, 2013, 05:49:04 PM
Quote from: Cheshire Cat on March 22, 2013, 05:43:19 PM
I was thinking restaurant too Stephen. Perhaps they would consider that. How about a new take on Boomtown? I would love to be able to taste the peanut chicken again.
lol. Its much easier to simply make it for you than to open an entire restaurant for that purpose, you know.
I had rather thought that the people from Casa Dora were wanting to move into the renovated space.
What were those tiny little pasta goodies you made as well? I don't remember what you called those. Those were awesome. Isn't Casa Dora Jerry's place or am I mistaken?
Jacksonville's common response......."I guess something is better than nothing" is why Jacksonville is where it is today....if this goes through.....this will be yet another dead space after 5pm.........
Quote from: tpot on March 22, 2013, 05:55:20 PM
Jacksonville's common response......."I guess something is better than nothing" is why Jacksonville is where it is today....if this goes through.....this will be yet another dead space after 5pm.........
That's not been everyone's response tpot, hence this discussion. :)
Right, now I remember. Thank you. Why not another night life restaurant type of venue in that spot? I don't remember how big the basement area was but that could be a great use for it. I know "Hamburger Mary's"! :)
Quote from: stephendare on March 22, 2013, 05:39:12 PM
meh. Nice is nice, I suppose.
But I would like to see more energy.
Obviously its empty now, so anything is better than whats happening now.
And people there during the day means more customers for downtown. But given the unique character of the architecture and its position straddling the Laura Street Area and the Bay Street Area, I just think that anything that doesnt enhance whats happening at night is a missed opportunity.
But perhaps the women at the Foundation are open to the basement level street restaurant still, so Im not criticizing.
Everything is pure speculation at this point. For all we know, there could be a ground level retail component like the Wilmington example. There's no reason the Wilmington's ground level bank branch couldn't be a dining entity if such an entity desired to lease a space.
When I mention the city getting out of the way, it primarily focuses around situations like this. It's one thing to decide the uses of publicly held property but completely another when dealing with the market driven private sector (i.e. Avondale Mellow Mushroom situation). While everyone would have loved to see something like Latitude 30 (which would have also had offices in most of the building) go in there, they decided not to. While everyone loved the mixed-use Main Branch proposal from a few years back, it clearly wasn't feasible for that development group to pursue that plan.
If Dupont believes this space is viable as an office building, is willing to purchase it, and their use is not in conflict with current public policy and future goals, they should be allowed to. Cities infill and evolve organically. We should steer clear of trying to force certain uses on other's projects (i.e. Shipyards). That rarely turns out well. As long as the intended product doesn't harm the mission of creating a vibrant pedestrian scale downtown core, everything should be good and allowed, imo. With that said, I believe there is existing policy in place that requires a certain % of ground level frontage to be retail (Whether DDRB follows it, is another story). So if a dining/nightlife option is viable, that particular entity will have an opportunity to sign a lease for the desired amount of space.
Quote from: thelakelander on March 22, 2013, 06:11:57 PM
Quote from: stephendare on March 22, 2013, 05:39:12 PM
meh. Nice is nice, I suppose.
But I would like to see more energy.
Obviously its empty now, so anything is better than whats happening now.
And people there during the day means more customers for downtown. But given the unique character of the architecture and its position straddling the Laura Street Area and the Bay Street Area, I just think that anything that doesnt enhance whats happening at night is a missed opportunity.
But perhaps the women at the Foundation are open to the basement level street restaurant still, so Im not criticizing.
Everything is pure speculation at this point. For all we know, there could be a ground level retail component like the Wilmington example. There's no reason the Wilmington's ground level bank branch couldn't be a dining entity if such an entity desired to lease a space.
When I mention the city getting out of the way, it primarily focuses around situations like this. It's one thing to decide the uses of publicly held property but completely another when dealing with the market driven private sector (i.e. Avondale Mellow Mushroom situation). While everyone would have loved to see something like Latitude 30 (which would have also had offices in most of the building) go in there, they decided not to. While everyone loved the mixed-use Main Branch proposal from a few years back, it clearly wasn't feasible for that development group to pursue that plan.
If Dupont believes this space is viable as an office building, is willing to purchase it, and their use is not in conflict with current public policy and future goals, they should be allowed to. Cities infill and evolve organically. We should steer clear of trying to force certain uses on other's projects (i.e. Shipyards). That rarely turns out well. As long as the intended product doesn't harm the mission of creating a vibrant pedestrian scale downtown core, everything should be good and allowed, imo. With that said, I believe there is existing policy in place that requires a certain % of ground level frontage to be retail (Whether DDRB follows it, is another story). So if a dining/nightlife option is viable, that particular entity will have an opportunity to sign a lease for the desired amount of space.
All true Ennis. We will have to wait and see I suppose or do some inquiry ourselves.
There's a similar concept in Springfield - the Wells Fargo Historic Springfield Community Learning Center (very long name).
I believe MJ did a feature on it.
Wells Fargo spent a bunch of money to renovate it's building at 6th & Main, including very nice non-profit space. Various non-profits work from there, all professional office type of work. Community groups are welcome to use it for meetings or functions too. The Jax Urban League coordinates the space.
I assume HB Library would be similar, I also assume it would take advantage of it's location....non-profits host many functions & activities.
QuoteWhen I mention the city getting out of the way, it primarily focuses around situations like this. It's one thing to decide the uses of publicly held property but completely another when dealing with the market driven private sector (i.e. Avondale Mellow Mushroom situation). While everyone would have loved to see something like Latitude 30 (which would have also had offices in most of the building) go in there, they decided not to. While everyone loved the mixed-use Main Branch proposal from a few years back, it clearly wasn't feasible for that development group to pursue that plan.
If Dupont believes this space is viable as an office building, is willing to purchase it, and their use is not in conflict with current public policy and future goals, they should be allowed to. Cities infill and evolve organically. We should steer clear of trying to force certain uses on other's projects (i.e. Shipyards). That rarely turns out well. As long as the intended product doesn't harm the mission of creating a vibrant pedestrian scale downtown core, everything should be good and allowed, imo
100% agree.
Let's not allow the perfect to become the enemy of the good. If this happens it will be good thing. The courthouse move has hurt lunchtime dining and happy hour bar business in the area. This would restore some of that.
Well I just got the scoop, the new tenant will be..... Hanjin! :P
Quote from: Cheshire Cat on March 22, 2013, 05:03:05 PM
Jeffrey I don't think anyone said this effort equated to a "homeless center". The focus of the structure is social services. I agree partnering with a mixed use for the structure could be a win. Stephen, I would also agree that the Dupont organization seems to be a really fine organization and as you put it "thoughtful". Frankly I think your white paper ideas is "excellent"!
Sometimes all it takes is constructive input to turn something nice into something exciting.
Forum member "tpot" in reply #8 posted:
"Non profit offices and a day center for the homeless??????"
I think that was what Jeffrey was referring to.
Quote from: fieldafm on March 22, 2013, 07:25:31 PM
QuoteWhen I mention the city getting out of the way, it primarily focuses around situations like this. It's one thing to decide the uses of publicly held property but completely another when dealing with the market driven private sector (i.e. Avondale Mellow Mushroom situation). While everyone would have loved to see something like Latitude 30 (which would have also had offices in most of the building) go in there, they decided not to. While everyone loved the mixed-use Main Branch proposal from a few years back, it clearly wasn't feasible for that development group to pursue that plan.
If Dupont believes this space is viable as an office building, is willing to purchase it, and their use is not in conflict with current public policy and future goals, they should be allowed to. Cities infill and evolve organically. We should steer clear of trying to force certain uses on other's projects (i.e. Shipyards). That rarely turns out well. As long as the intended product doesn't harm the mission of creating a vibrant pedestrian scale downtown core, everything should be good and allowed, imo
100% agree.
As do I.
Doesn't really matter what type of paperwork the admins are doing as long as bodies fill the spaces. Offices are offices. Fill the offices with breathing human beings, and they might just wander around looking for donuts and sandwiches.
And next thing you know, another cafe opens to accommodate this building full of people.
Perhaps some of the folks connected with this deal will read the thread and at least consider the ideas discussed. :)
The term non-profit covers many, many different type of companies that do everything from social service work, housing , supporting the arts and even job finding and creating. For both here in our country and many others. And the Dupont Trust provides funding for all sorts of programs, no just low income type programs either. What if the building was used as a showcase for what the various non-profits do? A place that the students from the various training programs available can get real world experience? A restraunt, an arts studio of sorts, lots of possibilities. All of which will do nothing but make downtown better and more used. People, not just certain "preferred" social economic groups, but all sorts of people with a purpose to be downtown is what is needed to make Downtown vibrant.
Quote from: strider on March 23, 2013, 11:18:14 AM
The term non-profit covers many, many different type of companies that do everything from social service work, housing , supporting the arts and even job finding and creating. For both here in our country and many others. And the Dupont Trust provides funding for all sorts of programs, no just low income type programs either. What if the building was used as a showcase for what the various non-profits do? A place that the students from the various training programs available can get real world experience? A restraunt, an arts studio of sorts, lots of possibilities. All of which will do nothing but make downtown better and more used. People, not just certain "preferred" social economic groups, but all sorts of people with a purpose to be downtown is what is needed to make Downtown vibrant.
These are my thoughts as well Strider. A creative approach could product a lot of positives.
Luckily, this would not be something they haven't already done before. Here's the history behind the Wilmington project:
QuoteCollaboration for the Community Service Building began at the level of Delaware’s top community funders. Representatives of the Longwood Foundation and DuPont Company’s Corporate Contributions Office met in 1993 to reflect on the way that major fund campaigns for facilities were handled. Two observations were made: one, that there was a constant flood of applicants for facility related capital projects and the other, that not all the needs could be met immediately by the current method of funding.
Inspired by the Meadows Foundation nonprofit campus in Dallas, Texas and Atlanta, Georgia’s Robert Woodruff Volunteer Center they saw benefits in funding a nonprofit center in Delaware. After a search for property for new construction or rehabilitation, Wilmington’s Montchanin building, a twelve-story office tower next to the DuPont building in downtown Wilmington was chosen. Parallel to the site acquisition process was concept development with the nonprofit community. Nonprofit organizations were consulted to explore their requirements and interest in such a collaborative effort. Parking was identified early as a requirement for participation.
The IRS required that two nonprofit corporations be formed since a portion of the building was to rent to for-profit entities in addition to the nonprofit organizations.
So two major events occurred at the end of 1995, IRS recognition as nonprofit corporations and the purchase of two properties from the DuPont Company. One the office building and the other property one block away to construct a new 473-space parking garage. Because the DuPont Company was now selling property to the new nonprofit entities for market value ($1.5 million) they were required to keep an arms length from any further involvement in the project and could not contribute funds.
DuPont used the building as an office complex for fourteen years after its purchase from the Wilmington Trust Company in 1980. It was constructed in 1925 and underwent expansions in 1930 and 1958. When the Community Service Building Corporation purchased it in 1995 it was in need of complete renovation and was closed for a year and a half. Approximately $24 million was spent to purchase the properties and to renovate the building and construct a new garage. Seven foundations, sixteen corporations and the State of Delaware (almost 90% of funding coming from the Longwood Foundation, funded the project with no debt.
The Community Service building was open for its first tenants April 1, 1997. On that date, only about six nonprofit tenants and the DuPont Company (with an agreement to lease five floors for five years) moved in. About twenty-four additional nonprofit tenants had signed leases to move in by year’s end. Ribbon cutting ceremonies with enthusiastic attendance of the nonprofit community took place May 7, 1997. Grand opening ceremonies were held September 7, 1997.
Today, the Community Service Building is fully occupied by 73 nonprofit tenants in 177,000 rentable square feet. Tenant suites range in size from one room to full floors. We are pleased by the diversity of the nonprofit organizations in the building. Please see our web site at www.csbcorp.org for further information.
http://www.csbcorp.org/pages/aboutUs.html
Quote from: Adam W on March 23, 2013, 04:28:55 AM
Quote from: Cheshire Cat on March 22, 2013, 05:03:05 PM
Jeffrey I don't think anyone said this effort equated to a "homeless center". The focus of the structure is social services. I agree partnering with a mixed use for the structure could be a win. Stephen, I would also agree that the Dupont organization seems to be a really fine organization and as you put it "thoughtful". Frankly I think your white paper ideas is "excellent"!
Sometimes all it takes is constructive input to turn something nice into something exciting.
Forum member "tpot" in reply #8 posted:
"Non profit offices and a day center for the homeless??????"
I think that was what Jeffrey was referring to.
Right on, it was Tpot who added zilch to this conversation, other than the mandatory pessimistic 'common responses' not Jeffrey.
You guys are correct. My comment should have been directed to "tpot", lmbo. My apologies Jeffrey. Yes people, that slid right by me until 1-10 pointed it out again. I plead brain blip and the fact that my mind has more years on it that most of yours. :)
We really have no idea what they are going to do or how they are planning to divide up the space, I was thinking about this when the thought struck me that we DO KNOW what it in all probability WON'T be. Here are a few of those thoughts:
1. A really super king sized Krispy Kreme Donut Shop.
2. Aircraft assembly plant.
3. New World Corporate HQ of 'Out Magazine'.
4. Worlds largest indoor cotton gin.
5. National Institute of Health Cannabis Research Facility.
6. Monster Truck Showroom.
7. The 'Second Baptist Church of Jacksonville'.
8. Ballistic Missile Silo.
9. Cuban Embassy.
10. Tyson's Chicken packing plant. ;)
11. Multi-modal Transportation Center
12. Kayak launch site (at least not until the river rises)
:)
13. Headquarters of the North Florida Invasive Species Association.
14. A library.
15. Anything worth visting
16. An inside parking lot with window views.
17. A DT Best Bet
18. Something that will help downtown become a vibrant place to be in either the short or long term
^If they buy it and successfully pull off what they say they want to do it will help both in the short and long term, every bit as much as an Everbank or RockTenn moving in.
Quote from: thelakelander on March 25, 2013, 09:50:05 AM
^If they buy it and successfully pull off what they say they want to do it will help both in the short and long term, every bit as much as an Everbank or RockTenn moving in.
I'd daresay moreso, as it will not only bring the professional types in but aid the mission of the non-profits using the space.
Even if this is simply office space, I would not relegate it to simply a 9-5 use, as non-profit organizations involve a lot of volunteer work hours. Any board meeting or special events planning by non-full-time members would likely take place after hours or even on weekends. Any flex space or public meeting space may be used during these "off" hours to an even greater extent. Like all the others here, I'd like to have this thing surrounded by retail, but I think it would be a positive no matter how you slice it.
Maybe this place will be so successful they'll have to expand by demolishing the parking structure across the street, or building on one of the parking lots across the other street. I'm just kidding.
QuoteThe Jessie Ball duPont Fund has entered into a purchase-and-sale agreement for the former Haydon Burns Library Downtown for potential conversion into offices for nonprofits.
The Jacksonville-based fund is a national foundation that provides grants to organizations identified by the late Jessie Ball duPont.
Fund President Sherry Magill said the organization has leased space for its offices Downtown for about three decades and buying a building is an idea that's been "kicked around" for the past couple of years.
"We're passionate about Downtown," she said.
The fund leases space in the Wells Fargo Center at 1 Independent Drive and supports 330 eligible organizations. Its areas of focus are strengthening the independent sector; building the assets of people, families and communities; and building the capacity of eligible organizations.
Magill said The Library at 122 N. Ocean St. would be converted into a center to house mission-oriented nonprofit organizations. She said they would rent office space and share open areas.
"It's big, but not too big, and wonderfully open and transparent. We can imagine doing a lot of things with it," she said. "It's attractive and in a great location.
http://www.jaxdailyrecord.com/showstory.php?Story_id=539074
19. Fuddruckers.
A building used just like this one was the catalyst for the renewal of downtown Ashville, NC beginning twenty years ago.
All kidding, and our list aside, I think it's a good fit.
Quote from: Dog Walker on March 25, 2013, 05:32:52 PM
A building used just like this one was the catalyst for the renewal of downtown Ashville, NC beginning twenty years ago.
Which? The arcade?
Nope, that came later. It was an office building about one block from the arcade that was used as a common set of offices for a number of non-profits, the same use as proposed for the library. Because there were 40-50 new workers in the area, a couple of cafes opened then more businesses moved into the area when they saw that the old garment buildings could be re-purposed as loft offices.
True organic growth.
If any of you have not been to downtown Asheville, you are missing one of the most active and vital urban districts in the South along with a lot of really great beer.
Asheville is awesome. The downtown Friday night drum circle is a spectacle to behold
Its offical
Quote
The trustees of the Jessie Ball duPont Fund have agreed to proceed with the purchase of the Haydon Burns Library building and plan to convert the downtown landmark into a philanthropic and nonprofit center.
Closing on the purchase of the building is set for Wednesday. Terms of the purchase are not being disclosed, according to a news release.
"This is a great moment for the Jessie Ball duPont Fund and for the city of Jacksonville," said Sherry Magill, president of the Fund. "This building, with all its quirkiness, is one of the beloved structures in downtown Jacksonville.
"We hope that saving and repurposing the building will not only benefit our nonprofit sector and our downtown economy, but will also generate enthusiasm among local residents who have fond memories of the library," she said.
Read our earlier story on the proposed purchase at http://jacksonville.com/news/metro/2013-03-22/story/dupont-fund-initiates-purchase-haydon-burns-building.
The trustees conducted a 90-day review of the building's condition and the feasibility of the planned conversion. That review revealed no insurmountable issues, according to the release.
The primary purpose of the project is to create a "philanthropic and nonprofit center that will be home to a variety of organizations, including the Jessie Ball duPont Fund. Collectively, these tenant organizations will benefit from the synergy created when they co-locate," according to the release.
Operating costs will be reduced through affordable rental rates and bulk purchasing, which will free additional philanthropic dollars to meet other community needs.
"We think the building will be a center of nonprofit activity, a gathering place for thoughtful leaders and volunteers who care deeply about the provision of services to all citizens of Jacksonville," said Magill.
Also, the trustees hope to use the building as a green energy demonstration project. The building will be engineered to meet LEED certification requirements, including an accessible green roof, recycled waterand other energy-saving features.
In addition, the structure of the building and its 33,000-square-foot basement will be an "excellent refuge" for nonprofit services can be coordinated in the wake of a manmade or natural disaster, according to the release.
The library has been vacant since 2005. Renovations, which will be in keeping with the historic architecture of the building, are expected to take at least 18 months, with occupancy possible in late 2014 or early 2015.
How many and which nonprofits will be housed in the building has not yet been determined. The renovated building will have in excess of 80,000 square feet of rentable space, according to the release.
For more information, email Magill at smagill@dupontfund.org or go to dupontfund.org
The more I hear about that project the more I'm coming around to it. It definitely sounds like something that will benefit Jax.
Awesome.
Quote from: duvaldude08 on June 19, 2013, 11:32:11 AM
Its offical
Quote
The trustees of the Jessie Ball duPont Fund have agreed to proceed with the purchase of the Haydon Burns Library building and plan to convert the downtown landmark into a philanthropic and nonprofit center.
Also, the trustees hope to use the building as a green energy demonstration project. The building will be engineered to meet LEED certification requirements, including an accessible green roof, recycled water and other energy-saving features.
This is great that they want to have it LEED certified.
Great to see another large building in our core becoming occupied. I look forward to seeing that block occupied with people on a daily basis.
Ouch!
QuoteHaydon Burns library sellers lost more than $1 million on deal
The Jessie Ball duPont Fund paid $2.2 million for the Haydon Burns Library in Downtown Jacksonville, according to public records.
The fund announced the closing of the sale Wednesday but declined to disclose the price. The deed was recorded Thursday.
The seller was a group of Jacksonville investors led by developer Bill Cesery. The group paid $3.25 million for the property in 2007.
full article: http://www.bizjournals.com/jacksonville/blog/2013/06/haydon-burns-library-sellers-lost.html
Quote from: thelakelander on June 22, 2013, 06:18:09 PM
Ouch!
QuoteHaydon Burns library sellers lost more than $1 million on deal
The Jessie Ball duPont Fund paid $2.2 million for the Haydon Burns Library in Downtown Jacksonville, according to public records.
The fund announced the closing of the sale Wednesday but declined to disclose the price. The deed was recorded Thursday.
The seller was a group of Jacksonville investors led by developer Bill Cesery. The group paid $3.25 million for the property in 2007.
full article: http://www.bizjournals.com/jacksonville/blog/2013/06/haydon-burns-library-sellers-lost.html
That is indeed one big "Ouchie".
The dates tell the real story there. Considering they bought in 2007 and are in a position to sell now, they're far luckier than many others. I just hope everyone's still standing when the deal's done. Proportionately speaking, I think we all know folks who bought property in 2007 that are in worse shape than that.
Some more details about the Jessie Ball duPont Fund's $20 million renovation plan:
QuoteThe nonprofit plans on spending about $20 million in renovations, and the building should be open and occupied by late 2014 or early 2015, Magill said.
“It’s an investment in downtown Jacksonville,†she said.
They plan on adding a green roof with a garden and potentially an area to throw a Frisbee disc or play croquet to the third floor roof, and they plan on converting the rest of the roof so that it absorbs less sunlight, saving energy.
They’ll turn the children’s puppet theater to a conference room.
They might turn the basement to a training center.
They might move the historic stairwell.
Magill hopes the building will host the Art Walk again. Bill Cesery, of the Cesery Companies, had hosted Art Walk events in the building until the fire marshal told him his building wasn’t up to code.
The Jessie Ball duPont Fund will take up less than 10 percent of the building’s space. The rest will be rented out to other nonprofits, retail services like a coffee shop or converted to public space.
http://jacksonville.com/news/metro/2013-07-01/story/jessie-ball-dupont-fund-will-spend-20-million-renovating-haydon-burns
Congratulations to all involved.
Who wants to be a 501-C? I'm serious.
Public, Private, Partnership
Help me see the Vision.
hmmm, what an ideal location for a non-profit theatre group...
www.the5anddime.org (http://www.the5anddime.org)
guess it's time to schedule a business lunch
Here's an update with design visuals:
http://m.bizjournals.com/jacksonville/news/2013/12/18/take-a-look-at-the-dupont-funds-plans.html
New windows still can't wash the ugly off of this building.
Happy to see it getting occupied though. I just wish they would use more lipstick on that thing.
We'll be running those and more as the feature story tomorrow. I held off today because of the restaurants article.
I too am happy to see it occupied, but am I missing something? It seems the only exterior changes are planting palm trees. Why even tout that as a great accomplishment? I'd be more impressed when they release who will actually be occupying the spaces.
I believe they also plan on restoring all the outside tiles.
Thanks, jaybird, that was the only difference I saw ... and *maybe* new windows.
I believe the they can not alter the exterior of the building because it is considered historic.
QuoteI believe the they can not alter the exterior of the building because it is considered historic.
Yep the only POS left from the 1960s binge of ugly buildings downtown. Of course the urban planners want to keep it, but who knew it would take THIS F'N long to get someone in it. The Old City Hall torn down to put THAT there, was better for the city than what is there now. Ugh.
I realize they can't change the historic "fins" - but was maybe expecting an outdoor cafe along the Forsyth frontage
And, when the old city hall on the site was torn down, the folks of the time probably said "Yep the only POS left from the 1960s binge of ugly buildings downtown"
Quote from: Intuition Ale Works on December 18, 2013, 08:54:20 PM
I believe the they can not alter the exterior of the building because it is considered historic.
I believe it is known as the aesthetic funk period of modern American architecture ... as in .. what the funk were we thinking?
Well, once again, we can agree and disagree Stephen ... I happen to love Klutho and am intimately familiar with his architecture ... but I find nothing redeeming about the library.
But, I am happy to see the development ... fully support the idea ... and think it is good for Jacksonville and downtown ... just sorry to see Cesery, et. al lose money on the deal.
I've seen other examples of his work. Aesthetically, I've just never been a huge fan of the style of architecture represented by Hayden Burns.
I actually have a complete set of architectural drawings of significant buildings done for SPAR back in the day ... one of my most prized possessions. Jacksonville has some interesting architectural heritage.