https://www.jaxdailyrecord.com/photo-gallery/jwb-real-estate-capital-buys-the-greenleaf-building-downtown
https://www.jaxdailyrecord.com/photo-gallery/after-more-than-132-years-jacobs-jewelers-moving-out-of-downtown
Huh.....Not sure how I feel about this one. Admittedly conflicted as there aren't too many retailers left from the heyday of Downtown retail.
I know JWB has been spending a lot of money in downtown already, but I'm very excited for them to move their operations to the urban core. I am sure they will enhance that block at the street level.
I agree that it was bittersweet to see Jacobs go, but I think everyone will be excited for the type of retail (and the quality of tenant) that we are planning to bring to the first floor of all of our buildings. The amount of interest in DT from out of town, best in class retail has been remarkable. IMO, outsiders see what is happening much more clearly than most local operators (although there are some clear exceptions to that - we are having conversations with some great local operators as well).
What will happen to the landmark clock?
Nothing, going to stay right where it is!
JWB continues to put their money where their mouth is regarding Downtown revitalization, where other developers have not. Bravo.
I worked in the Greenleaf building for a couple of years. I think it is one of the most beautiful buildings in the City, a real gem in a perfect location. This is a real "catch" for JWB. Jealous of this purchase :).
I am thinking Jacobs has to be the oldest retail left in the core by far. With their departure, other than bars and restaurants, what retail is left of any note? Maybe the Jaxson does a review of the remains, if any.
Clothing, home goods, grocery, hobby stores, furniture, newsstands, department stores, service companies (insurance and now, even some bank branches) movie theaters, auto stores, pharmacies/drug stores, travel agents, jewelry stores, variety stores, the post office.... one by one, all but gone from downtown. Churches are struggling, and, now, with COVID, many office workers are disappearing too.
I think residential is the main hope for the future of Downtown which may bring some of the above back one day.
The Historic Preservation Commission voted this week to designate the Greenleaf & Crosby Building as a landmark.
https://www.jaxdailyrecord.com/news/2023/jul/27/historic-designation-recommended-for-greenleaf-crosby-building-downtown/
Owner JWB is planning "a substantial rehabilitation" that would gain access with this designation to city incentives through the DIA's Downtown Preservation and Revitalization Program, which would then enable JWB to move their headquarters downtown from Phillips Highway.
About time we get SOME good news around here.
Quote from: heights unknown on July 27, 2023, 03:45:53 PM
About time we get SOME good news around here.
You jinxed it.
Captain Sandy just bought the Greenleaf Building.
Has plans to do a little "light demolition" to convert it into a nautical themed Arby's.
Arby's!!! I was expecting a Fudruckers! :o