The rise and fall of an overlooked historic Jacksonville streetcar suburb: Lackawanna.

Residential Lackawanna

Lackawanna is home to an eclectic range of architectural styles and periods of construction. Older residential structures dominate the east section of the neighborhood, built within walking distance of the former Lackawanna streetcar line and the SAL shops. Modest mid and late-20th century residences dominate the western section of the neighborhood. A broad range of religious structures are scattered throughout the neighborhood. Interstate 10, built in 1960, serves as a significant barrier between Lackawanna and former portions of the neighborhood which are now considered to be a part of the adjacent Murray Hill neighborhood.

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2. Hollybrook Park was developed between 1922 and 1952 by the City of Jacksonville. Straddling Westbrook and McCoys Creeks, the largely passive park also features a softball field, tennis courts, barbecue grills, and benches. It’s the type of interactive green space that is seamlessly integrated into the neighborhoods surrounding it, that newer subdivisions lack today.

3. One of the city’s most architecturally unique religious structures can be found in Lackawanna at 4057 Hunt Street. The Wat Kanteyaram Khmer Cambodian Buddhist Temple was built in 2013.

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10. In 1960, Interstate 10 was constructed parallel to Lenox Avenue, partially leading to Lackawanna’s decline as a visible commercial center. The highway also serves as a significant barrier to accessing neighborhoods to the south.

Article and photographs by Ennis Davis, AICP. Contact Ennis at edavis@moderncities.com