Push to develop Jacksonville's Old City Hall annex

The Downtown Investment Authority discussed the future of the Old City Hall annex building Tuesday.

The building was imploded last month and will soon be home to something new.

Video: Implosion of Jacksonville old City Hall Annex | Photos: Implosion of the Jacksonville old City Hall Annex

Among the options discussed was an unsolicited proposal submitted by a developer for River Walk Park, which would include apartments, a hotel, parking and a food hall.

The DIA didn’t accept the proposal. Instead, starting over, they have decided to retain a consultant and put out a notice of disposition for developers.

Brian Hughes, the interim CEO for the DIA, says development along the river is vital for downtown growth.

STORY: Businesses negatively affected by clean-up from implosion of the old Jacksonville City Hall Annex

“Getting it right, means what’s the right blend as we develop from one end to the other,” Hughes said.

Plans were put on hold for a convention center at the location because surrounding areas need to be redeveloped first.

Mayor Lenny Curry has discussed moving the jail which is just down the street from the old annex site.

The DIA seems set on a mixed-use development. A plan could be in place by the end of 2019.

A vision for the Old City Hall Annex location, developers are already showing interest. While the DIA has set this unsolicited proposal aside, they are discussing future options for the property. @ActionNewsJax at 5:00 pic.twitter.com/aLjYy8MGev
— Bridgette Matter (@bridgetteANjax) February 26, 2019