San Marco Walking Tour

October 29, 2024 | Mike Field

news

Join The Jaxson on Saturday, November 9th for a walking tour exploring the past, present and future of one of Jacksonville's most popular historic neighborhoods: San Marco

Jaxlore: Annie Lytle Elementary, 'The Devil's School'

October 27, 2024 | Article by Bill Delaney

news

Jaxlore is a column by Bill Delaney on the folklore, urban legends and local traditions of Jacksonville and the First Coast. Today's edition looks at the former Annie Lytle Elementary...

Great Cities Symposium a chance to learn from leader

October 1, 2024 | Editorial by Bill Hoff

news

Since 2019, the Great Cities Symposium has brought remarkable civic and business leaders to Jacksonville from peer cities to share their experience and expertise leading improvements in their respective cities....

Southern Rock Pilgrimage: The Allman Brothers Big House

August 14, 2024 | Bill Delaney

news

Shortly after they established Southern rock in Jacksonville in 1969, the Allman Brothers Band relocated to Macon, Georgia to record at Capricorn Records. From 1970 to 1973, band members and...

A redevelopment example for Jacksonville’s Eastside

August 12, 2024 | Ennis Davis, AICP

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Located in West Palm Beach, the ongoing revitalization of the historic Northwest Neighborhood should serve as an example of what could happen in Jacksonville’s Historic Eastside as a result of...

A preservation success story: Historic Hampton House

August 6, 2024 | Ennis Davis, AICP

news

The Historic Hampton House Museum of Culture & Art is a good example of what can be done with Jacksonville's four remaining Green Book sites.

Jacksonville’s 9 signature foods

August 1, 2024 | Article by Bill Delaney

news

Jacksonville’s unique history has given the city a richly varied – if often slept-on – food scene. From Gullah Geechee specialties like garlic crabs to a homegrown style of barbecue...

The stories behind 6 famous Jax photos

July 23, 2024 | Article by Bill Delaney

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Ostrich carts, Ax Handle Saturday, 'that' Consolidation moment, and many more: photography has captured some of the best and worst scenes in Jacksonville history. Today, the Jaxson takes a look...

LaVilla's Lift Ev'ry Voice and Sing Park opens

June 28, 2024 | Ennis Davis, AICP

news

Sights and scenes from the grand opening of LaVilla's Lift Ev'ry Voice and Sing Park.

Preserving West Lewisville's Oneida Court

June 19, 2024 | Ennis Davis, AICP

news

Dating back to 1925, the Oneida Bungalow Court is the largest single-site collection of historic residential units from West Lewisville's (North Riverside's) early days. Now a small local developer intends...

Writers of the First Coast: James Weldon Johnson

June 18, 2024 | Bill Delaney

news

James Weldon Johnson (1871 – 1938) is, without exaggeration, the single most accomplished person ever to come from Jacksonville or Florida. Among other things, the LaVilla native was Florida’s first...

Florida's largest cities by population

May 29, 2024 | Ennis Davis, AICP

news

The Census Bureau recently released their 2023 estimates for the country's largest cities. Did you know that the Port St. Lucie could soon pass St. Petersburg to become Florida's fourth...

Examples of Jewish heritage sites in Jacksonville

May 27, 2024 | Ennis Davis, AICP

news

May is recognized as Jewish American Heritage Month. Jacksonville has a long Jewish history, with a Jewish community dating as far back as the mid-19th century. Paying tribute to the...

Jacksonville now the 10th most populous U.S. city

May 24, 2024 | Ennis Davis, AICP

news

The Census Bureau recently released their 2023 estimates for the country's largest cities. Here is a look to where Jacksonville's growth fits in within the list.

Memory lane: Downtown's Main Street in 1952

May 19, 2024 | Ennis Davis, AICP

news

A visual trip back in time through Downtown Jacksonville's Main Street in 1952.

The year of the Downtown public space

May 13, 2024 | Article by Ennis Davis, AICP

At long last, several high profile park projects across Downtown Jacksonville have opened this year, with more following in the coming months. With Friendship Fountain reopened in February, the Emerald...

Withintrification: Oretha Castle Haley Boulevard

April 8, 2024 | Editorial by Ennis Davis, AICP

Ever wonder what a historic neighborhood commercial district in Jacksonville can resemble after revitalization in the form of “withintrification” takes place? Oretha Castle Haley Boulevard in New Orleans is a...

Neighborhoods: San Marco's Fletcher Park

March 26, 2024 | Ennis Davis, AICP

A virtual tour of a neighborhood originally intended to house World War I naval shipyard workers: Fletcher Park

Harriet Tubman in Jacksonville

March 20, 2024 | Ennis Davis, AICP

Born Araminta Ross and known as “the Moses of her people,” Harriet Tubman escaped enslavement and rescued hundreds through a network of safe houses and antislavery activists known as the...

The Gullah Geechee corridor's 5 largest MSAs

March 3, 2024 | Editorial by Ennis Davis, AICP

A national heritage area established by the U.S. Congress in 2006, the Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor is the only heritage area in the country that’s both a group of...

OPINION | Southbank storage units are a bad deal

February 29, 2024 | Editorial by Mike Field

After repeated attempts against significant community opposition to develop self-storage units on a prime corner in Downtown’s Southbank neighborhood, Atlanta-based developer The Simpson Organization is back with a new proposal...

Changing the urban landscape in 2024

January 22, 2024 | Editorial by Ennis Davis, AICP, Bill Delaney and Mike Field

This will be an exciting year for Jacksonville's urban core. While much local focus has been centered on Downtown revitalization, the real estate market continues to heat up in adjacent...

6 historical facts about Lake Forest

January 16, 2024 | Editorial by Ennis Davis, AICP

Located five miles northwest of downtown, the neighborhood of Lake Forest has a history and built environment largely shaped by significant housing booms, bubbles and busts of early 20th century...

The Jaxson's top 10 articles of 2023

December 28, 2023 | Article by Ennis Davis, AICP

2023 had no shortage of news and great stories. Here's a look back at The Jaxson's 10 most popular articles of the year.

Sights and scenes: Downtown Bozeman, MT

December 22, 2023 | Ennis Davis, AICP

A virtual visit and walk through the downtown streets of Montana's fourth largest city.

Riverside history you don't hear about everyday

December 12, 2023 | Editorial by Ennis Davis, AICP

Before urban renewal: LaVilla's West Monroe Street

November 22, 2023 | Ennis Davis, AICP

What does urban renewal look like? What did LaVilla, Jacksonville's oldest suburb, dating back to 1866 look like? Ask no more. We recently received access to pre-demolition photographs of properties...

Six forgotten regional breweries in Florida

November 15, 2023 | Ennis Davis, AICP

A 'regional brewery' can be described as one that distributes to particular regions on a smaller basis than the nationwide breweries many of us are familiar with today. According to...

Sights and scenes: Downtown Raleigh

November 8, 2023 | Ennis Davis, AICP

A virtual ride through the downtown streets of North Carolina's second-most populous city: Raleigh

Jaxlore: The Humanzee of Orange Park

October 30, 2023 | Bill Delaney

Unseen and unknown by most in the region, from 1930 to 1965 Orange Park was home to one of the largest chimpanzee research operations in the world, the Yerkes Laboratories...

The Edward Waters University Historic District

October 4, 2023 | Editorial by Ennis Davis, AICP

Located two miles northwest of Downtown, Edward Waters University is Jacksonville's oldest institution of higher learning. The oldest portion of the urban university campus was added to the National Register...

Scenic Jacksonville welcomes Great Cities Symposium

October 3, 2023 | Guest editorial by Bill Hoff

Scenic Jacksonville welcomes AG Lafley as guest speaker at the annual Great Cities Symposium on October 4th, 2023 at the Garden Club of Jacksonville.

Sights and Scenes: Downtown Montgomery

September 27, 2023 | Ennis Davis, AICP

The capital of Alabama, Montgomery is home to a downtown district that has been revitalized around its Civil Rights history.

Cities for Everyone with Gil Penalosa

September 5, 2023 | Ennis Davis, AICP

This week, Downtown Jacksonville will host 1,000 planners will be in Downtown Jacksonville for the Florida Chapter of the American Planning Association's annual statewide planning conference. Here is a free...

Five popular historic wholesale districts

August 11, 2023 | Ennis Davis, AICP

A wholesale district is an area where a compact cluster of intermediary entities that buy in bulk and sell to resellers rather than to consumers are located. Here's a quick...

The story of the Downtown Southbank

August 7, 2023 | Article by Bill Delaney

Now considered part of Downtown Jacksonville, the waterfront district between the St. Johns River and I-95 has a deceptively long history of its own. From a ferry landing to shipyards...

The Jaxson presents: Southbank night tour

July 31, 2023 | Article by Bill Delaney

Join The Jaxson on Thursday, August 3, for an evening walking tour of the past, present and future of the Downtown Southbank.

Sights and Scenes: Akron

July 25, 2023 | Ennis Davis, AICP

A virtual visit through the downtown streets of Ohio's fifth-largest city: Akron

The Downtown jail fallacy

July 24, 2023 | Editorial by Ennis Davis and Mike Field

It’s often claimed that moving Jacksonville’s waterfront jail and police station is key to revitalizing Downtown. But is it true? A survey of cities with livelier downtowns than Jacksonville’s shows...

Crafting a vision for Downtown's city-owned properties

July 17, 2023 | Editorial by Bill Delaney

The City of Jacksonville owns hundreds of underused parcels across Downtown. While this has been an obstacle to revitalization, it's also an opportunity: by selling off some properties and developing...

Jaxlore: Nine Jacksonville legends

July 13, 2023 | Bill Delaney

Jaxlore is a column by Bill Delaney on the folklore, urban legends and local traditions of Jacksonville and the First Coast. In honor of spooky season, today's column brings together...

Five sites from Jax's LGBTQ history in the Urban Core

July 3, 2023 | Editorial by Bill Delaney, Ennis Davis and Mike Field

Jacksonville's LGBTQ history has always been rich and colorful, if often overlooked. Here's a tour of five sites across the Urban Core with ties to the city's LGBTQ story.

Al Letson joins First Coast Connect as interim host

June 29, 2023 | Article by Bill Delaney

WJCT Public Media has announced that radio host, storyteller and general Renaissance man Al Letson will take over the station's popular call-in show First Coast Connect on an interim basis....

The Jaxson presents: LGBTQ Jax history bike tour

June 22, 2023 | Bill Delaney

In honor of Pride Month, join The Jaxson's Mike Field and the St. Johns Riverkeeper's Steph Morse on Saturday, June 24 for a guided bike tour of sites and stories...

The Jaxson presents: LGBTQ Jax history bike tour

June 15, 2023 | Article by Bill Delaney

In honor of Pride Month, join The Jaxson's Mike Field and the St. Johns Riverkeeper's Steph Morse on Saturday, June 24 for a guided bike tour of sites and stories...

Four common-sense ways to revitalize Downtown Jax

June 12, 2023 | Editorial by Bill Delaney and Ennis Davis

With a new mayor and city council members taking office in July, revitalizing Downtown Jacksonville will continue to be a top priority for the city government. Here are four proven,...

A First Look at the Stadium of the Future

June 7, 2023 | Ennis Davis, AICP

A look at recently released plans for the stadium of the future for the Jacksonville Jaguars by 1st Downtown Jacksonville.

Five stories from Jacksonville's hamburger history

June 6, 2023 | Article by Ennis Davis, AICP and Bill Delaney

May was National Hamburger Month, and Memorial Day weekend kicked off the summer cookout season. From the first ever Burger King to long-gone local chains, here's a look at five...

Charles Garrison: Reflections from the campaign trail

May 31, 2023 | Guest editorial by Charles Garrison

Charles Garrison, the Democratic candidate for City Council At-Large Group 5 in the recent local elections, ran on a platform of #BuildingForward. Though he didn't win his race, he offers...

Downtown Jacksonville's most endangered buildings

May 30, 2023 | Article by Ennis Davis, AICP

In honor of National Historic Preservation Month, here's a brief list of overlooked buildings, structures and landmarks in Downtown Jacksonville that could end up becoming the next in the city's...

The Jaxson presents: LGBTQ Jax history bike tour

May 23, 2023 | Bill Delaney

In honor of Pride Month, join The Jaxson's Mike Field and the St. Johns Riverkeeper's Steph Morse on Saturday, June 17 for a guided bike tour of sites and stories...

Jaxlore: The lost city of Ossachite

May 22, 2023 | Article by Bill Delaney

Jaxlore is a column by Bill Delaney on the folklore, urban legends and local traditions of Jacksonville and the First Coast. Today's column dives into the legendary Timucua town of...

The Jaxson presents: Jacksonville trivia at Dart Bar

May 18, 2023 | Article by Bill Delaney

This Sunday, May 21, The Jaxson team will host an all-Jacksonville trivia night for the Dart Bar's grand opening weekend. Come on out and test your Duval knowledge!

The Ford plant demolition shows a dearth of vision

May 9, 2023 | Editorial by Bill Delaney

In the debate over the fate of the old Ford Motor Co. Assembly Plant in Talleyrand, east of Downtown Jacksonville’s city leaders missed a huge opportunity: partial preservation of the...

6 lost towns within Jacksonville's borders

May 1, 2023 | Bill Delaney and Ennis Davis, AICP

Some of the neighborhoods that now make up intrinsic parts of Jacksonville were once incorporated towns in their own right. Here are the stories of six lost towns within the...

Overcoming North Florida's Housing Crisis

April 25, 2023 | Ennis Davis, AICP

Join the American Planning Association (APA) Florida First Coast Section on Wednesday, April 26, for a free panel session focusing on housing issues facing the Northeast Florida region and an...

Five historical facts about Murray Hill

April 24, 2023 | Editorial by Ennis Davis, AICP

Located five miles southwest of Downtown Jacksonville, the neighborhood of Murray Hill has a long and colorful history. It is the birthplace of Lynyrd Skynyrd founding member Gary Rossington, the...

The Jaxson presents: Historic Murray Hill walking tour

April 21, 2023 | Ennis Davis, AICP

Join The Jaxson on Saturday, April 22, for a walking tour of the historic Murray Hill neighborhood.

Secret Jacksonville walking tours

April 12, 2023 | The Jaxson

On Saturday, April 15, Jaxson cofounder Bill Delaney will host the next monthly walking tour of spots featured in his book Secret Jacksonville: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful and...

The 10-year saga of the Fuller Warren pedestrian path

April 10, 2023 | Article by Bill Delaney and Ennis Davis, AICP

In 2013, members of the Jaxson team were among the first to raise questions about a proposal to widen the Fuller Warren Bridge without including a bike and pedestrian crossing....

The YIMBY case for historic preservation

April 3, 2023 | Bill Delaney

In much writing about urban development, the pro-density Yes In My Backyard movement and historic preservation are often presented as opposing philosophies. In Jacksonville's case, however, YIMBYs and preservationists are...

The Jaxson presents: Historic Springfield walking tour

March 22, 2023 | Ennis Davis, AICP

In honor of Women's History Month, join The Jaxson on Saturday, March 25, for a walking tour of historic Springfield.

Lenny's Lawn: A 4-year retrospective

March 20, 2023 | Editorial by Bill Delaney and Ennis Davis

In February 2019, the City of Jacksonville announced its controversial plan to buy and raze the old Jacksonville Landing. While many hoped an iconic new space would soon replace the...

The Jaxson presents: Historic Springfield walking tour

March 14, 2023 | Ennis Davis, AICP

In honor of Women's History Month, join The Jaxson on Saturday, March 25, for a walking tour of historic Springfield.

Secret Jacksonville walking tours

March 7, 2023 | The Jaxson

On Saturday, March 11, Jaxson cofounder Bill Delaney will host the next monthly walking tour of spots featured in his book Secret Jacksonville: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful and...

Jacksonville’s signature foods

March 6, 2023 | Article by Bill Delaney

Jacksonville’s unique history has given the city a richly varied – if often slept-on – food scene. From Gullah Geechee specialties like garlic crabs to a homegrown style of barbecue...

Earth M.M. White: An “Angel of Mercy”

March 2, 2023 | Article by Sarah Virginia Dumitrascu

In honor of Women’s History Month, The Jaxson is recalling the great life of Eartha M.M. White, a prolific philanthropist and humanitarian in Jacksonville during the 20th century who made...

Six facts about LaVilla you should know

February 28, 2023 | Article by Ennis Davis and Bill Delaney

Located just west of the Downtown Core, LaVilla is one of Jacksonville's oldest historically African-American neighborhoods. The parking craters and empty lots of today belie a rich and vibrant history....

WJCT drops new podcast Bygone Jax: Our Unsung History

February 24, 2023 | Bill Delaney

WJCT Public Media has partnered with Florida State College at Jacksonville for a new podcast exploring Jax's hidden history and forgotten stories. The first episodes of Bygone Jax: Our Unsung...

Out East Sees New Vibrancy

February 23, 2023 | Editorial by Kady Yellow

The Jaxson shares an editorial of a placemaking project in Jacksonville's Eastside community that was recently organized by local placemaker Kady Yellow and the newly formed Eastside Legacy Business Council....

The Jaxson presents: LaVilla Then & Now walking tour

February 21, 2023 | Bill Delaney

In honor of Black History Month, join The Jaxson on Saturday, February 25 for a walking tour of Jacksonville's oldest historically Black neighborhood: LaVilla.

Secret Jacksonville walking tours

February 15, 2023 | The Jaxson

On Saturday, February 18, Jaxson cofounder Bill Delaney will host the next monthly walking tour of spots featured in his book Secret Jacksonville: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful and...

Fort Mose reconstruction could begin in fall

February 14, 2023 | Article by WJCT News

Fort Mose Historic State Park has taken what it considers a major step toward realizing the dream of reconstructing the 1738 Fort Mose on park property in St. Augustine.

The Jaxson presents: LaVilla Then & Now walking tour

February 9, 2023 | Bill Delaney

In honor of Black History Month, join The Jaxson on Saturday, February 25 for a walking tour of Jacksonville's oldest historically Black neighborhood: LaVilla.

Sights and Scenes: Tampa's Water Street

February 8, 2023 | Ennis Davis, AICP

Water Street Tampa is a $3 billion mixed-use development underway near Tampa's Channel District. Here is a look at phase one of the Water Street Master Plan.

Jax and the Godzilla strategy of urban development

February 6, 2023 | Editorial by Bill Delaney

Downtown Jacksonville has long embraced what can best be described as the Godzilla strategy of urban development: demolishing existing buildings in hopes that flashy new ones will replace them. There's...

Jacksonville's four surviving Green Book sites

February 1, 2023 | Ennis Davis, AICP

First published in 1936, the 'Negro Motorist Green Book' was a compilation of restaurants, over-night accommodations, gas stations and other public services for people of color traversing a “White-only” landscape...

Secret Jacksonville walking tours

January 31, 2023 | The Jaxson

On Saturday, February 18, Jaxson cofounder Bill Delaney will host the next monthly walking tour of spots featured in his book Secret Jacksonville: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful and...

Changing the urban landscape in 2023

January 30, 2023 | Editorial by Ennis Davis and Bill Delaney

Between redevelopment projects' moving forward, gentrification's gaining attention and a federal judge's tossing gerrymandered City Council maps, 2023 could be a year of big change for Jacksonville's Urban Core. Here's...

20 questions for Jacksonville candidates

January 17, 2023 | Guest editorial by Chris Hand

In this guest editorial, Jacksonville attorney and author Chris Hand looks toward the 2023 local elections with a list of incisive questions for the candidates running.

The Jaxson walking tours and events

January 11, 2023 | Bill Delaney

The Jaxson's 2023 walking tours and events are on the books. Join us each month for guided tours of LaVilla, Downtown, historic Springfield, and for the first time, Murray Hill....

A Gate Parkway-style gas station comes for LaVilla

January 10, 2023 | Editorial by Bill Delaney, Ennis Davis and Mike Field

Set amid a sea of suburban-style surface parking and featuring enough car entrances to endanger pedestrians on four different streets, the new Daily's gas station proposed for LaVilla couldn't be...

Secret Jacksonville walking tours

January 3, 2023 | Bill Delaney

On Saturday, January 14, Jaxson cofounder Bill Delaney will host the next monthly walking tour of spots featured in his book Secret Jacksonville: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful and...

Waterfront parks: 5 models for Jacksonville

December 26, 2022 | Ennis Davis, Bill Delaney and Daniel Herbin

As Jacksonville continues working toward iconic park space on our Downtown riverfront, here's a look at five excellent examples from across the country that can serve as inspiration.

'Tis the Season for Secret Jacksonville

December 16, 2022 | The Jaxson

Looking for the perfect gift for the Duval lovers in your life this holiday season? Stuff your stockings with signed copies of Bill Delaney's book Secret Jacksonville and tickets for...

Sights and Scenes: Downtown Stuart

December 14, 2022 | Ennis Davis, AICP

A look at the core of a coastal Florida community known as the Sailfish Capital of the World: Downtown Stuart

Secret Jacksonville walking tours

December 13, 2022 | The Jaxson

On Saturday, December 17, Jaxson cofounder Bill Delaney will host the next monthly walking tour of spots featured in his book Secret Jacksonville: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful and...

Secret Jacksonville walking tours

November 30, 2022 | Bill Delaney

On Saturday, December 17, Jaxson cofounder Bill Delaney will host the next monthly walking tour of spots featured in his book Secret Jacksonville: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful and...

Secret Jacksonville walking tours

November 17, 2022 | The Jaxson

On Saturday, November 19, Jaxson cofounder Bill Delaney will host the next monthly walking tour of spots featured in his book Secret Jacksonville: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful and...

Secret Jacksonville walking tours

October 25, 2022 | The Jaxson

Starting Sunday, October 30, Secret Jacksonville walking tours are back. Jaxson cofounder Bill Delaney will host monthly tours of some of the unusual and underknown Downtown spots featured in his...

Confessions of a Recovering Engineer and LaVilla tour

October 18, 2022 | Ennis Davis, AICP

Charles Marohn, founder of Strong Towns, will be giving a 'Confessions of a Recovering Engineer' presentation and LaVilla walking tour on Wednesday, October 19, 2022. Sponsored by the First Coast...

Downtown Jacksonville's ten largest office buildings

October 17, 2022 | Article by Ennis Davis, AICP

How well do you know Downtown Jacksonville? Here's a list of the 10 largest non-residential buildings in downtown by gross area. Some may surprise you.

Shad Khan will buy Neptune Beach's Seahorse Inn

October 14, 2022 | Bill Delaney

Shad Khan's Iguana Investments has announced its intent to purchase the Seahorse Oceanfront Inn and the Lemon Bar in Neptune Beach. Here's what the future could hold for this landmark...

Secret Jacksonville walking tours

October 11, 2022 | The Jaxson

Starting Sunday, October 30, Secret Jacksonville walking tours are back. Jaxson cofounder Bill Delaney will host monthly tours of some of the unusual and underknown Downtown spots featured in his...

Jacksonville could become an oyster town again

October 10, 2022 | Article by Bill Delaney and Ennis Davis

Oysters have been a staple of First Coast diets for thousands of years, though local oyster harvesting ceased in 1994 due to pollution. The rise of new oyster houses in...

The story behind Hurricane Irma's most famous photo

September 28, 2022 | Article by Bill Delaney

On September 11, 2017, Hurricane Irma devastated Jacksonville, causing more damage than any other storm before or since. Local photographer Mark Krancer braved the flooding and wreckage to record the...

Secret Jacksonville: Exchange Club Island

September 26, 2022 | Article by Bill Delaney

Though it hasn’t always been accessible or maintained, Exchange Club Island is an official city park and one of Jacksonville’s most unique urban spaces. Here’s a dive into the colorful...

Two Centuries of Jacksonville: Impacts of Consolidation

September 22, 2022 | Ennis Davis, AICP

On September 22, 2022, the Jessie Ball duPont Fund, Ennis Davis of The Jaxson and the First Coast Section of the American Planning Association present Two Centuries of Jacksonville: Impacts...

Six First Coast beach stories

September 5, 2022 | Article by Bill Delaney

Jacksonville and the First Coast are home to some of the best, most accessible beaches in a state known for them – and we’ve still got weeks to enjoy them....

Jax's accessory dwelling unit bill deserves support

August 22, 2022 | Editorial by Bill Delaney

Jacksonville City Council is currently debating the Keep Our Families Together Act, which would allow accessory dwelling units – garage apartments, detached suites, etc. – to be built in more...

Six Jacksonville day trips

August 15, 2022 | Article by Ennis Davis and Bill Delaney

There’s a lot to do in the Jacksonville area, and even more within a short drive. With summer winding down, here’s a look at six places with authentic charm that...

Art Bikes Jax hosts Secret Jacksonville tour

August 3, 2022 | The Jaxson

On Sunday, August 7, Art Bikes Jax and author Bill Delaney are hosting an electric bike tour featuring stops from Bill's book Secret Jacksonville: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful...

Don't sweat the 'wrong kind' of housing

August 1, 2022 | Editorial by Bill Delaney

New residential projects in established neighborhoods often draw pushback. This is especially the case when the developments are seen as too expensive, too large or otherwise undesirable. But with Jacksonville...

The Florida Trust's 2022 11 to Save list released

July 29, 2022 | Ennis Davis, AICP

On Wednesday, July 27th, the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation announced the 2022 Florida’s 11 to Save, a list of the most threatened historic places in the state, at the...

Art Bikes Jax hosts Secret Jacksonville tour

July 26, 2022 | The Jaxson

On Sunday, August 7, Art Bikes Jax and author Bill Delaney are hosting an electric bike tour featuring stops from Bill's book Secret Jacksonville: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful...

Florida's secret weapon in the housing crisis

July 25, 2022 | Editorial by Bill Delaney

With the creation of the Sadowski trust fund to support affordable housing in 1992, Florida led the way in ensuring that low-income residents had a place to live. Failure to...

Resolving the Downtown self-storage wars

June 27, 2022 | Editorial by Bill Delaney, Ennis Davis and Mike Field.

Developers want to lift a ban on self-storage facilities in Downtown Jacksonville, but building such facilities haphazardly across the city center could stifle key streets and create more dead space...

Saving 618 West Adams Street

June 20, 2022 | Editorial by Ennis Davis, AICP

A building possibly directly linked to the Great Fire of 1901 in LaVilla could be demolished soon. Here are a few reasons why Jacksonville should not rush to approve a...

2 Centuries of Jacksonville: Placemaking & Placekeeping

June 15, 2022 | Ennis Davis, AICP

On June 17, 2022, the Jessie Ball duPont Fund and Ennis Davis of The Jaxson present Two Centuries of Jacksonville: Placemaking & Placekeeping.

5 moments that shaped Jacksonville history

June 13, 2022 | Article by Bill Delaney and Ennis Davis

As Jacksonville celebrates its 200th birthday, The Jaxson looks back at five moments in time that have shaped the city's history, from the Civil War through Consolidation.

The Cuban sandwich in North Florida

June 7, 2022 | Article by Marisella Veiga

A product of Florida's centuries-old Cuban community, the Cuban sandwich is one of the Sunshine State's most iconic foods. St. Augustine writer Marisella Veiga explores some of the eateries offering...

Between the cheerleaders and cynics

June 6, 2022 | Bill Delaney

The Jaxson team is often accused of being cheerleaders for Jacksonville who don't do enough to acknowledge our city's problems. Conversely, we're also frequently accused of being cynics who don't...

Last Secret Jacksonville tour of the season

May 25, 2022 | The Jaxson

On Saturday, May 28, Jaxson cofounder Bill Delaney will host this month's walking tour of Downtown spots featured in his book Secret Jacksonville. It's the last Secret Jacksonville walking tour...

4 local solutions to help fight Jax's housing crisis

May 23, 2022 | Editorial by Bill Delaney

With a shortage of available homes and prices spiking up dramatically, Jacksonville is the midst of a full-blown housing crisis. Fortunately, there's much the city government can do to help...

Secret Jacksonville book tours and events

May 12, 2022 | Bill Delaney

On Saturday, May 28, Jaxson cofounder Bill Delaney will host the next walking tour of Downtown spots featured in his new book Secret Jacksonville. It's just some of the events...

Author Craig Pittman talks Florida at Beaches Library

May 11, 2022 | The Jaxson

Jaxson cofounder Bill Delaney will interview author, environmental journalist and proud Floridian Craig Pittman as part of the Jacksonville Public Library's Lit Chat series. Join them at 1 p.m. Saturday,...

Jacksonville's 6 most distinctive foods

May 2, 2022 | Article by Bill Delaney

From neighborhood joints to gourmet cuisine to home-cooked specialties, Jacksonville has no shortage of great food. Here's a look at six of the most distinctive foods to come out of...

10 long time Arab American businesses in Jacksonville

April 28, 2022 | Article by Ennis Davis, AICP

Arab Americans have played a major part in Jacksonville history and culture since the 1890s. In honor of National Arab American Heritage Month, here are ten local Arab American businesses...

Two Centuries of Jacksonville: Benefits of Blue Zones

April 20, 2022 | Ennis Davis, AICP

On April 21, 2022, the Jessie Ball duPont Fund and Ennis Davis of The Jaxson present Two Centuries of Jacksonville: The Benefits of Blue Zones.

Secret Jacksonville book tours and events

April 19, 2022 | Bill Delaney

On Saturday, April 23 and Saturday, May 28, Jaxson cofounder Bill Delaney will host the next walking tours of Downtown spots featured in his new book Secret Jacksonville. They're just...

5 types of missing middle housing Jax should revive

April 18, 2022 | Editorial by Bill Delaney and Ennis Davis

Missing middle housing represents many types of residences ranging in scale between single-family homes and massive apartment buildings. From shotgun homes to duplexes to bungalow courts, missing middle housing was...

Sights and Scenes: Stadium District and Eastside tour

March 29, 2022 | Article by Ennis Davis, AICP

Sights and scenes from The Jaxson's recent walking tour of Jacksonville's Sports & Entertainment District and Historic Eastside. Photographs courtesy of The Jaxson's Ennis Davis, AICP and @caroneats Caron Streibich....

Bronzeville: A revitalization example for Jacksonville

March 28, 2022 | Ennis Davis, AICP

Those hoping to revitalize Jacksonville's historic Black neighborhoods should take a look at Chicago's Bronzeville. Located in the South Side, Bronzeville rose to prominence as a national hub for blues...

The Jaxson presents: Stadium District & Eastside tour

March 25, 2022 | Bill Delaney

On Saturday, March 26 join The Jaxson for a guided walking tour exploring the past, present and future of two neighborhoods full of history and life: the Stadium District and...

Parking craters: A Downtown vibrancy killer

March 14, 2022 | Editorial by Bill Delaney

Despite a common perception that parking is difficult in the city center, Downtown Jacksonville has more surface parking lots, garages and empty land – in other words, 'parking craters' –...

Before and After: JEA Headquarters

March 11, 2022 | Ennis Davis, AICP

The JEA's new headquarters building in Downtown Jacksonville is nearing completion. Here is a before and after comparison of conceptual renderings verses what has been built.

Virtual Event: Abandoned African American Cemeteries

March 8, 2022 | Ennis Davis, AICP

On March 10, 2022, the Jessie Ball duPont Fund and Ennis Davis of The Jaxson present Two Centuries of Jacksonville: Abandoned African American Cemeteries.

The Civil War Photography of St. Augustine

February 16, 2022 | Article by Andrew R. Nicholas

Local writer Andrew Nicholas shares a look at pictures taken of St. Augustine by Union photographer Samuel Abbot Cooley during the Civil War.

Sights and Scenes: Tampa's Water Street

February 8, 2022 | Ennis Davis, AICP

Water Street Tampa is a $3 billion mixed-use development underway near Tampa's Channel District. Here is a look at phase one of the Water Street Master Plan.

5 Black history sites in Brooklyn

February 7, 2022 | Editorial by Ennis Davis and Bill Delaney

In honor of the beginning of Black History Month, here’s a review of sites in the quickly changing neighborhood of Brooklyn with ties to Jacksonville’s Black heritage.

The Jaxson presents: Five Points & Brooklyn tour

February 4, 2022 | Bill Delaney

Five Points and Brooklyn are two Urban Core neighborhoods full of culture, history and life. On Saturday, Feb. 5, join The Jaxson for a guided walking tour exploring the past,...

Secret Jacksonville book tours and events

February 1, 2022 | The Jaxson

On Saturday, March 19 and Saturday, April 23, Jaxson cofounder Bill Delaney will host the next walking tours of Downtown spots featured in his new book Secret Jacksonville. They're just...

Rethinking Jacksonville’s convention center dilemma

January 24, 2022 | Editorial by Bill Delaney and Ennis Davis

A new convention center has been in Jacksonville's long term plans for decades, but the Downtown Investment Authority now says it could be another 10 years before the city is...

The Jaxson presents: Northbank Renaissance walking tour

January 21, 2022 | Article by Bill Delaney

Under the radar, big things are happening in the Downtown Northbank that could change Jacksonville's city center forever. On Saturday, January 22, join The Jaxson for a guided walking tour...

The Northbank Renaissance continues: 4 new projects

January 18, 2022 | Editorial by Bill Delaney and Ennis Davis, AICP

Driven by adaptive reuse and historic incentives, Jacksonville's Downtown Northbank is experiencing a veritable renaissance of new developments. Here's a look at four new projects that have sprung up in...

Secret Jacksonville book tours and events

January 11, 2022 | The Jaxson

On Saturday, February 12 and Saturday, March 12, Jaxson cofounder Bill Delaney will host the next walking tours of Downtown spots featured in his new book Secret Jacksonville. They're just...

Changing the urban landscape in 2022

January 10, 2022 | Editorial by Ennis Davis and Bill Delaney

Jacksonville's Urban Core is growing again after decades of decline, the Emerald Trail has broken ground, and the Downtown Northbank is seeing a veritable renaissance of adaptive reuse developments. Looking...

Secret Jacksonville book tours and events

January 1, 2022 | The Jaxson

On Saturday, January 15, and Saturday, February 12, Jaxson cofounder Bill Delaney will host the next walking tours of Downtown spots featured in his new book Secret Jacksonville. They're just...

Duval Schools headquarters must stay Downtown

December 20, 2021 | Editorial by Ennis Davis, AICP and Bill Delaney

Duval County Public Schools' announcement that it plans to sell its Southbank headquarters and relocate is welcome news for those who want a more active use on this waterfront parcel....

The forgotten factor behind Downtown Jax's struggles

December 14, 2021 | Editorial by Ennis Davis, AICP and Bill Delaney

Analyses of Downtown Jacksonville's continued struggles typically focus on factors within Downtown's boundaries. Though generally overlooked, one external factor may play the biggest role: the Urban Core neighborhoods that historically...

Five development myths that hold Downtown Jax back

December 6, 2021 | Editorial by Bill Delaney

Does demolishing old buildings prime the pump for flashy new ones? Is 10,000 residents the magic number necessary to enliven Downtown Jacksonville? Is downtown development really as complicated as we...

Jax Library Lit Chat with Bill Delaney

November 30, 2021 | The Jaxson

This Saturday, Dec. 4, Jaxson cofounder Bill Delaney will join the Jacksonville Public Library for a Lit Chat on his new book Secret Jacksonville: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful,...

What hotels can do for downtown vibrancy

November 29, 2021 | Editorial by Ennis Davis, Bill Delaney and Mike Field

A new Home2 Suites in Brooklyn is the latest hotel project moving forward in Downtown Jacksonville. With more hotels in various stages of planning, it's time for Jacksonville to embrace...

Local writer makes cards worth giving

November 24, 2021 | Ennis Davis

Jacksonville writer Sarah Gojekian launches a new local business providing handmade cards, Onlycardever.

5 infrastructure bill projects Jax should pursue

November 22, 2021 | Editorial by Ennis Davis, Bill Delaney and Mike Field

On November 15, President Joe Biden signed the massive bipartisan infrastructure bill into law. With $19 billion in investment coming to Florida, here's a look at five projects Jacksonville could...

Introducing WJCT Public Media's Jacksonville Today

November 3, 2021 | The Jaxson Magazine

Jacksonville Today is a part of WJCT Public Media's Local Journalism Initiative, aimed at strengthening local news reporting in Northeast Florida. To date, the initiative has received more than $1...

James Weldon Johnson in Haiti

October 28, 2021 | Guest article by John "Jack" F. Gaillard

A guest article highlighting James Weldon Johnson's trip to Haiti in 1920.

One Riverside: How to activate an urban sidewalk

October 25, 2021 | Editorial by The Jaxson Magazine

One Riverside Avenue, the development planned to replace the former Florida Times-Union headquarters, will likely be up for final site plan approval by the Downtown Development Review Board in November....

Virtual Event: Withintrification and the Color of Law

October 21, 2021 | Article by Ennis Davis, AICP

On October 22, 2021, the Jessie Ball duPont Fund, the First Coast Section of the American Planning Association's Florida Chapter and Ennis Davis of The Jaxson present Jacksonville History &...

The Jaxson presents: San Marco walking tour

October 19, 2021 | Article by Ennis Davis, AICP

In honor of National Community Planning Month, join The Jaxson on Saturday, October 23rd for a past, present and future tour of one of Jacksonville's most popular historic neighborhoods: San...

Clustering and the future of Bay Street

October 18, 2021 | Editorial by Bill Delaney and Ennis Davis

The simple principle of the 'Three C's' – the clustering of complementing uses in compact, walkable settings – has guided successful urban revivals in communities of all sizes across the...

JaxbyJax literary festival coming October 15-16

October 12, 2021 | The Jaxson

Now in its eight year, the JaxbyJax Literary Arts Festival will showcase 'Jacksonville writers writing Jacksonville' on Friday, October 15 and Saturday, October 16.

The Jaxson presents: San Marco walking tour

October 8, 2021 | Article by Ennis Davis, AICP

In honor of National Community Planning Month, join The Jaxson on Saturday, October 23rd for a past, present and future tour of one of Jacksonville's most popular historic neighborhoods: San...

Secret Jacksonville walking tours and events

October 4, 2021 | The Jaxson

On Saturday Oct. 9, Saturday, Nov. 6, and Saturday, Dec. 11, Jaxson cofounder Bill Delaney will host a walking tour of Downtown spots featured in his new book Secret Jacksonville....

Secret Jacksonville walking tours and events

September 24, 2021 | Bill Delaney

On Saturday Oct. 9 and Saturday, Nov. 6, Jaxson cofounder Bill Delaney will host a walking tour of Downtown spots featured in his new book Secret Jacksonville. They're just some...

History & Heritage Series: Jax's Multicultural History

September 23, 2021 | Article by Ennis Davis, AICP

On September 24, 2021, the Jessie Ball duPont Fund and Ennis Davis of The Jaxson present Jacksonville History & Heritage Series: Jacksonville's Multicultural History and Our Changing Demographics

Secret Jacksonville book launch party coming Sept. 25

September 7, 2021 | The Jaxson

Join The Jaxson's Bill Delaney for the launch party for his new book, Secret Jacksonville: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure. The launch kicks off at 6 pm...

Support First Coast businesses on 904 Day

September 3, 2021 | Bill Delaney

This Saturday is 9/04, and local leaders invite everyone in the 904 area code to mark the occasion by celebrating small local businesses.

Census 2020: Urban Jacksonville growing again

August 18, 2021 | Article by Bill Delaney and Ennis Davis

After six decades of continuous decline, Jacksonville's Urban Core is growing again. Here are five interesting Urban Core trends from Jacksonville's 2020 Census results.

New book Secret Jacksonville explores Jax's hidden side

August 16, 2021 | Bill Delaney

Secret Jacksonville, a new book by The Jaxson's Bill Delaney, uncovers the city's hidden histories and explores some of its most unique and unusual spots. Preorder your copy today.

Bill Delaney's new book explores 'Secret Jacksonville'

August 16, 2021 | Article by The Jaxson

In his first book, Jaxson co-owner Bill Delaney explores some of Jacksonville's most unique and unusual spots. Preorder your copy of Secret Jacksonville: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful and...

2020 Census data released. How does Jacksonville rank?

August 12, 2021 | Ennis Davis, AICP

The U.S. Census Bureau has released the 2020 census results. Here is a brief look at where Jacksonville ranks in comparison to other cities and metropolitan areas throughout the country...

Diversity + Inclusion in Florida Historic Preservation

July 22, 2021 | Ennis Davis, AICP

Virtually join speakers from local government, journalism, academia, nonprofits, and the National Park Service attending the Preservation on Main Street conference as they highlight efforts to increase diversity and inclusion...

Edward Waters College is now Edward Waters University

July 1, 2021 | Tristan Wood

WJCT News reports that Florida's oldest historically Black institution of higher education will be renamed to reflect that it will now offer master's degrees.

11 Soul Food Restaurants in Jacksonville

June 29, 2021 | Ennis Davis, AICP

In honor of June being National Soul Food Month, here are eleven authentic and locally operated soul food restaurants in Jacksonville. If you see a soul food establishment you'd recommend...

The Jaxson presents: Jax music history bike tour

June 24, 2021 | Article by Ennis Davis, AICP

Join The Jaxson on Saturday, June 26 for a two hour bike tour of key pieces of Jacksonville's vibrant music history.

The Jaxson presents: Jax music history bike tour

June 24, 2021 | Article by Ennis Davis, AICP

Join The Jaxson on Saturday, June 26 for a two hour bike tour of key pieces of Jacksonville's vibrant music history.

History & Heritage: Jacksonville's Musical History

June 24, 2021 | Article by Ennis Davis, AICP

On June 24, 2021, the Jessie Ball duPont Fund and Ennis Davis of The Jaxson present Jacksonville History & Heritage Series: Jacksonville's Musical History.

Sights and Scenes: Atlanta's Centennial Olympic Park

June 8, 2021 | Article by Ennis Davis, AICP

Sights and scenes from a walk through Downtown Atlanta's Centennial Olympic Park and Pemberton Place.

The Jaxson presents: Jax music history bike tour

June 7, 2021 | Article by Ennis Davis, AICP

Join The Jaxson on Saturday, June 26 for a two hour bike tour of key pieces of Jacksonville's vibrant music history.

1st DownTown Jacksonville Renderings

June 3, 2021 | Article by Ennis Davis, AICP

Renderings of proposed plans for a Four Seasons Hotel and Football Performance Center at Jacksonville's TIAA Bank Field.

NoCo No-Go: 4 reasons to ax DIA's Downtown rebrand

May 26, 2021 | Editorial by Bill Delaney

The Downtown Investment Authority has released a survey floating a variety of rebranding options for Downtown neighborhoods. Included in the options are new names for the Northbank and Southbank that...

Event: Celebrating Lincolnville's Gullah Geechee Story

May 18, 2021 | Ennis Davis, AICP

In celebration of National Historic Preservation Month, the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation and the Lincolnville Museum and Cultural Center will host a series of events to celebrate Lincolnville and...

Downtown Council Walking Tour planned for April 24

April 13, 2021 | Ennis Davis, AICP

Join the The Jaxson's Ennis Davis and Katherine Derringer of JWB Real Estate Capital, for a tour of Downtown Jacksonville.

It's time to drop Jax's Confederate school names

April 9, 2021 | Editorial by Bill Delaney

Jacksonville's Confederate school names are a relic of Jim Crow era school segregation – and it's high time to get rid of them.

Neighborhoods: College Gardens

February 17, 2021 | Article by Ennis Davis, AICP

A virtual tour of a Mid-Westside neighborhood built for Jacksonville's segregation era Black middle class community: College Gardens

The Jaxson presents: Downtown Northbank walking tour

January 20, 2021 | Ennis Davis, AICP

Join The Jaxson on Saturday, January 23rd for a past, present and future tour of one of Jacksonville's most historic settings: the Downtown Jacksonville National Register Historic District

New book: Jacksonville and the Roots of Southern Rock

December 22, 2020 | Bill Delaney

Michael Ray FitzGerald's comprehensive new book gives Jacksonville its due as the epicenter of Southern rock. Join us for a look inside and an interview with the author.

Brooklyn projects show need to define primary streets

December 16, 2020 | Bill Delaney

Not all Downtown streets are the same, and the Downtown Design Review Board's discussions of the proposed Home2 Suites project in Brooklyn show that Jacksonville needs to adjust its approach....

Brooklyn's Riverside Avenue: Before and After

December 7, 2020 | Ennis Davis, AICP

Jacksonville's urban core is home to a number of historic walkable neighborhood commercial districts. Many are a direct result of the city's former electric streetcar network that operated between 1880...

Rosenwald Documentary Viewing and Panel Discussion

December 3, 2020 | Ennis Davis, AICP

Join co-hosts the Jessie Ball duPont Fund and the Jaxson Magazine in celebrating the contributions of Jacksonville’s Jewish community and our connections to renowned businessman and national philanthropist Julius Rosenwald....

Five Local Native American Heritage Facts

November 27, 2020 | Ennis Davis, AICP

In honor of National Native American Heritage Month, here are five facts related to Northeast Florida's Native American history.

Could the Jumbo Shrimp be headed for Triple-A?

November 25, 2020 | Bill Delaney

A pending realignment of minor league baseball has led to speculation that the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp could be promoted from class Double-A to Triple-A, the highest level in the minors....

MOSH presents vision for Jacksonville's Northbank

November 12, 2020 | Ennis Davis, AICP

On November 12th, representatives from the Museum of Science & History (MOSH) presented to the City of Jacksonville Downtown Investment Authority’s Strategic Implementation Committee. The presentation included a rendering, for...

Throwback: Celebrating Armistice Day in Jacksonville

November 11, 2020 | Ennis Davis, AICP

In honor of all who serve and the sacrifices they give, here are a few historic photographs of Armistice Day parades in Downtown Jacksonville during the 1940s. Happy Veterans Day!...

Clustering and the 'Three C's' of urban revitalization

November 2, 2020 | Article by Bill Delaney and Ennis Davis

Successful urban revitalization projects of all scopes and sizes rely on a simple three-pronged principle: the clustering of complementing uses within a compact setting. It's a tried and true formula...

The Jaxson presents: Evergreen Cemetery walking tour

October 20, 2020 | Bill Delaney

Join The Jaxson on Sunday, October 25 for a tour of one of Jacksonville's most historic spaces: Evergreen Cemetery.

The RCBC debate shows Downtown needs a master plan

October 19, 2020 | Bill Delaney

Developers listened to public feedback and added a new restaurant to the River City Brewing Company development. This move turned a loss into a net gain – but it wouldn't...

How your community can recreate vibrancy after COVID-19

October 15, 2020 | Guest Editorial by Quint Studer

A guest article by Quint Studer, founder of Pensacola's Studer Community Insitute, highlighting the importance of how investing in the little things can lead to great revitalization impact.

New poll shows Duval's political complexity

September 30, 2020 | Bill Delaney

A recently released poll of Duval County voters reveals support for Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden, Republican Governor Ron DeSantis, and the proposed one cent sales tax increase supporting Duval...

Close Talkers

September 24, 2020 | Guest editorial by Melissa Hege, AICP

South Florida-based city planner Melissa Hege takes a look at how cities have adapted during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Future of Shopping Malls: Adapt or Fail

September 22, 2020 | Ennis Davis, AICP

More than one-third of the shopping malls across the country could close within the next year. Many mall owners are now moving into a period of time where they'll be...

The Future Hasn't Been Put on Hold

September 2, 2020 | Quint Studer

A guest article by Quint Studer, founder of Pensacola's Studer Community Insitute, highlighting the need for cities to push forward despite the COVID-19 pandemic

10 examples of Brutalist architecture in Jacksonville

August 31, 2020 | Ennis Davis, AICP

Emerging as a popular architectural style after World War II, Brutalism is characterized by minimalist constructions that showcase the bare building materials and visible structural elements over decorative design. By...

Tim Gilmore's new book chronicles FL's 'Murder Capital'

August 19, 2020 | Bill Delaney

In his 20th book, author Tim Gilmore limns Jacksonville's darker history with eight stories of murder and mayhem from the 1890s to the 1980s. Get your copy on August 20,...

85% of independent restaurants at risk

August 7, 2020 | Ennis Davis

85% Of Independent Restaurants At Risk; Jax Owners Urge Support Of RESTAURANTS Act

Gentrification vs. Withintrification in Jacksonville

August 4, 2020 | Ennis Davis and Bill Delaney

Many cities are looking for solutions to the issues caused by gentrification – the influx of new money into neighborhoods that often causes displacement of older residents. One emerging strategy...

Sights & Scenes: The Tampa Riverwalk

July 24, 2020 | Ennis Davis, AICP

Completed in 2016, the Tampa Riverwalk is a two-mile pedestrian and bike path along the Hillsborough River and Garrison Channel. Popular since day one, it is the tie that connects...

Will parking derail Post Modern Brewing?

July 22, 2020 | Bill Delaney

Jacksonville's planning department is recommending the city deny plans to restore Riverside's old Purple Petunia building as Post Modern Brewing. It's an example of outdated suburban rules potentially derailing an...

Savannah's Wards

July 6, 2020 | Scott Gann

Scott Gann of the Bold Cities Project shares the historical story behind the development of Savannah's Wards.

Ten Soul Food Restaurants in Jacksonville

June 19, 2020 | Ennis Davis, AICP

In honor of Juneteenth, here are ten black owned authentic and locally operated soul food restaurants in Jacksonville. If you see a soul food establishment you'd recommend that is not...

Post Modern Brewing coming to Riverside

June 18, 2020 | Bill Delaney

Jacksonville's next craft brewery is planned for a historic former gas station on the border of Riverside and Murray Hill.

Folio 2.0: John Phillips reboots Jax's alt weekly

June 15, 2020 | Bill Delaney

A month after Folio Weekly shut down, local attorney John Phillips is bringing back Jacksonville's alternative weekly paper as Folio 2.0.

Video: Jacksonville welcomes the RNC

June 12, 2020 | Ennis Davis, AICP

'It's official! Jacksonville will host the Republican National Convention this August. Mayor Lenny Curry believes the city does things big, bold and will be ready depsite the expedited event planning...

Jacksonville’s Civil War memorials

June 9, 2020 | Bill Delaney

Although few in number compared to many other Southern cities, a variety of monuments and memorials commemorating the Civil War exist in Jacksonville. These include graves, historic sites associated with...

2020 Ranking of U.S Cities by ParkScore Released

May 29, 2020 | Ennis Davis, AICP

The Trust for Public Land has released its annual ParkScore list for the country's 100 largest cities. The ParkScore criteria includes the percentage of residents who live within a 10-minute...

An American Boomtown: Austin

May 22, 2020 | Ennis Davis, AICP

The vibrancy of cities comes in all shapes and sizes. Many believe that what works in internationally known cosmopolitan settings may not be applicable for cities in America that have...

Hidden Jacksonville: Marco Lake

May 20, 2020 | Bill Delaney

Converted from a brickyard claypit into a manmade lake during the construction of Jacksonville’s popular San Marco neighborhood in the 1920s, Marco Lake is one of the city’s most picturesque...

#KeepJaxLive: The story of Jack Rabbits and JaxLive

May 6, 2020 | Bill Delaney

For over 20 years, Anne Wind has been hosting live music at Jack Rabbits while her husband Tim Hall books shows across the First Coast through JaxLive. In the age...

How ELM is managing the COVID environment

April 24, 2020 | Guest editorial by Steve Lovett

A guest editorial highlighting how a Jacksonville planning, architecture, and landscape architecture firm is managing change due to COVID-19 pandemic.

St. Augustine's Lincolnville Historic District

April 8, 2020 | Ennis Davis, AICP

Originally called Africa or Little Africa, Lincolnville was settled by recently freed enslaved in the marshes of Maria Sanchez Creek just west of St. Augustine in 1866. Largely developed between...

Eight of Florida's first African-American millionaires

April 3, 2020 | Ennis Davis, AICP

A brief story of eight African Americans who became millionaires in Florida before desegregation.

A Look at Jacksonville’s Arab American Community

April 2, 2020 | Ennis Davis, AICP

In honor of Arab American Heritage Month, the Jaxson's Bill Delaney highlights the history and impact of Jacksonville’s Syrian and Arab community. The River City boasts the country’s fifth-largest Syrian...

U.S. metropolitan area 2019 population estimates

April 2, 2020 | Ennis Davis, AICP

A look at where the country's largest metropolitan statistical areas rank in population, according to the United States Census Bureau's recently released 2019 population estimates.

Quint Studer: Leading in Uncertain Times

March 20, 2020 | Ennis Davis, AICP

To say we’re all facing some challenges right now is an understatement. As I write these words, the World Health Organization has declared COVID-19 a pandemic. Travel has been restricted....

Rapidly gentrifying: Charleston's Westside

March 11, 2020 | Ennis Davis, AICP

A visual tour of a rapidly gentrifying African-American neighborhood in Charleston: Westside

Erased: Jacksonville’s Mount Herman Cemetery

February 19, 2020 | Article by Ennis Davis, AICP with research by Adrienne Burke, AICP, Esq.

Converted into a community center, parking lot and park, Jacksonville's Mount Herman Cemetery may be one of the oldest and largest African-American cemeteries erased from existence.

Mapping Jax calls for saving the Sunday school building

February 18, 2020 | Bill Delaney

Steve Williams, founder of the Jacksonville group MappingJax, released a video arguing for the community to come out against demolishing First Baptist Church's former Sunday school building.

Vibrant urban waterfronts: Paris

February 13, 2020 | Ennis Davis, AICP

The Jaxson Magazine takes a visual walk through one of the world's most vibrant urban waterfronts: The Seine in Paris

Will 10K residents really revitalize Downtown Jax?

January 23, 2020 | Bill Delaney

Advocates have long used a population of 10,000 as the benchmark Downtown Jacksonville must reach to achieve vibrancy. However, this figure leaves out the importance of population density - Downtown...

10 stories that shaped Jax in the 2010s

December 20, 2019 | Bill Delaney

A look back at some of Jacksonville’s biggest stories of the decade.

The Jaxson's top 30 articles of 2019

December 19, 2019 | Bill Delaney

The Jaxson covered a lot of ground in 2019. Take a look at our top 30 stories by number of views.

Five Ways to Access and Support Local Food

December 10, 2019 | Mike Field

If you wanted to eat only locally-produced food for a month, could you? In most towns, the answer is probably 'no.' Below are five ways to shift the dial in...

APA FL's People's Choice Winner: Downtown Winter Haven

December 9, 2019 | Ennis Davis, AICP

One element that all downtowns have in common is that their character will change over the course of time. Downtown Winter Haven, APA Florida's 2019 Great Places in Florida People's...

Charlotte's Optimist Hall: The South's latest food hall

November 27, 2019 | Ennis Davis, AICP

Charlotte isn't a city known as being a stalwart of historic preservation and adaptive reuse. However, Optimist Hall, the latest major adaptive reuse project along the city’s light rail line,...

Southern Rock Pilgrimage: The Allman Brothers Big House

November 26, 2019 | Bill Delaney

Shortly after they established Southern rock in Jacksonville in 1969, the Allman Brothers Band relocated to Macon, Georgia to record at Capricorn Records. From 1970 to 1973, band members and...

Last chance to see: the Landing is quietly coming down

November 21, 2019 | J.D. McGregor

Unlike previous downtown demolitions that were accompanied by media blitzes and celebratory fanfare, the city is proceeding quietly with its controversial plan to raze the Jacksonville Landing.

RedCoach Offers Free Tickets For Jaxson Readers

November 5, 2019 | Ennis Davis, AICP

Orlando-based RedCoach offers free tickets for Jaxson and Modern Cities readers willing to travel prior to November 21, 2019.

7 Haunted Places In Jacksonville

October 31, 2019 | Ennis Davis, AICP

If you're the type of person who believes in ghost, ghouls, and goblins, here are few sites in town you might want to avoid this Halloween courtesy of Modern Cities....

Seven Historic Food Halls Headed to Florida's Cities

October 17, 2019 | Ennis Davis, AICP

The food hall craze continues to take the south by storm. Here is a brief look at the latest food hall projects in Florida, involving the adaptive reuse of historic...

Setting the Table for Urban Revitalization

September 30, 2019 | Ennis Davis, AICP

Join The Jaxson, WJCT and APA Florida's First Coast Section on the evening of October 2nd for Setting the Table for Urban Revitalization, a free discussion exploring how authentic, local...

Eight Defunct Grocery Chains You Remember

September 20, 2019 | Ennis Davis, AICP

Before chains like Walmart, Publix, and Winn-Dixie dominated the grocery business, these names once anchored shopping centers and street corners throughout our cities.

Lenny's Lawn: The Grass Field Replacing the Landing

August 12, 2019 | J.D. McGregor

Mayor Curry has revealed his plans for replacing the Jacksonville Landing after its demolition, and as Urban Core advocates have feared for months, it's mostly an empty field. Get ready...

Bringing Retail Back Downtown: Detroit

August 5, 2019 | Ennis Davis, AICP

15 years after the opening of Campus Martius Park, the results of clustering complementing development within a compact setting are beginning to pay dividends. Now home to more than 6,500...

AEW Is Making Jacksonville A Wrestling Hotspot

August 1, 2019 | Bill Delaney

Jacksonville-based All Elite Wrestling is disrupting the pro wrestling world - and boosting the River City's profile as an entertainment destination.

12 Free Things To Do In Jacksonville

July 19, 2019 | Ennis Davis, AICP

If you live in Jacksonville, then you already know: there's always something to do here. But going out with friends or planning a day with the family doesn’t have to...

7 Arguments For The Landing As Historic Architecture

July 15, 2019 | J.D. McGregor

Buildings that are 50 years or older are landmarked as historically significant according to a set of seven criteria. The Jacksonville Landing already passes all seven, meaning that in 18...

The Hidden Tunnels Of Union Terminal

June 10, 2019 | Ennis Davis, AICP

During its heyday, the Jacksonville Terminal was the largest passenger railroad station in the South and served as an official gateway to worldwide travelers entering downtown, handling as many as...

DCPS Seeks Public Input On School Changes, Closures

April 1, 2019 | Bill Delaney

Through Thursday, April 4, Duval County Public Schools (DCPS) is seeking public input on a proposed $1.95 billion facilities master plan that calls for building new schools and closing -...

So, Jax May Be The Only City To Demolish Its Landing

March 20, 2019 | The Jaxson

Most festival marketplaces built in the 1970s and 1980s have struggled, but the Jacksonville Landing may be the first to be outright demolished and not replaced. While other cities have...

Boom times in Downtown Orlando

March 15, 2019 | Ennis Davis, AICP

Many cities have struggled with the revitalization of their urban cores. Orlando isn't one of them. A sleepy central business district twenty years ago continues its radical transformation into an...

Adaptive Reuse: Norfolk's Waterside District

February 25, 2019 | Ennis Davis, AICP

Some look at the Jacksonville Landing as a failure that's past its prime and believe that taxpayers should pay to demolish the complex, evicting several businesses from the downtown core...

Five Well-known African-Americans Who Spent Time In Jax

February 14, 2019 | Ennis Davis, AICP

In honor of Black History Month, here's five internationally known African-American individuals who spent some time in Jacksonville.

Medical Marijuana Dispensary Coming To Five Points

February 10, 2019 | Ennis Davis

1968: East Bay Street of Yesteryear

February 8, 2019 | Ennis Davis, AICP

This may be an area you don't recognize today. The maritime industrial district in this article grew up around two railroad lines into downtown Jacksonville that no longer exist.

The Jaxson Presents Getting There In Jacksonville

January 24, 2019 | Ennis Davis, AICP

Join The Jaxson tonight for a free discussion focusing on the impact of Jacksonville's changing demographics on current and future transportation initiatives.

A Better Downtown For Lakeland?

January 22, 2019 | Ennis Davis, AICP

Inspired by Greenville, South Carolina and envisioning a better downtown, Lakeland, Florida's city leaders view existing surface parking as fertile ground for office, retail and additional multi-family housing. With this...

The Heart of Georgia: Macon

January 16, 2019 | Ennis Davis, AICP

The Sun Belt has seen substantial population growth since the 1960s from an influx of people seeking a warm and sunny climate, a surge in retiring baby boomers, and growing...

Christmas in Detroit: A Downtown Being Reborn

January 7, 2019 | Ennis Davis, AICP

Sights and scenes from around Downtown Detroit during the holiday season.

Brightline has a new name, mentions Jacksonville in IPO

January 3, 2019 | Ennis Davis, AICP

Brightline (now Virgin Trains USA), the first new major private passenger intercity rail system in the United States in over a century has a new name and growth plans that...

Top 20 Articles of 2018

December 31, 2018 | Ennis Davis, AICP

Modern Cities and the Jaxson covered a lot of ground in 2018. Today, we take a look at the 20 most popular articles of the year, ranked by number of...

15 Things You Didn't Know About Polk County

December 4, 2018 | Ennis Davis, AICP

Modern Cities takes a trip to the Polk Historical Museum to identify 15 things about a major Central Florida county that you didn't already know.

KPF Residential Tower Breaks Ground in Tampa

November 15, 2018 | Ennis Davis, AICP

Strategic Property Partners, LLC Has Broken Ground on First Residential Building in Water Street Tampa Neighborhood. 815 Water Street, designed by Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates, offers the first chance to...

Table for 400: Miami's Latest Experiment

November 12, 2018 | Melissa Hege, AICP

It's not every day that you can enjoy an intimate meal with 400 of your closest friends, but community dinners are a thing. And Miami isn't going to be left...

'Forgotten Spaces, Places Reimagined' Panel Video

October 29, 2018 | Bill Delaney

On October 23, The Jaxson hosted our first ever live event, 'Forgotten Spaces: Places Reimagined.' Scroll down for the full video.

The Jaxson Presents Forgotten Spaces: Places Reimagined

October 19, 2018 | Ennis Davis

Join The Jaxson on the evening of October 23 for Forgotten Spaces, a free discussion about how the history and importance of a space becomes forgotten over time and how...

Opportunity Zones: Help for Poor or Tax Cut for Rich?

October 18, 2018 | Ennis Davis, AICP

Could an influx of private sector investment fuel long needed economic growth into our most distressed neighborhoods? Or will a new community development program designed to drive private investment to...

Time-Lapse: Construction of NYC's Waterline Square

October 1, 2018 | Ennis Davis, AICP

A cool time-lapse video of Manhattan's Waterline Square, a luxury residential development designed by Rafael Viñoly Architects, Richard Meier & Partners Architects, and Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates (KPF).

Modern Cities partners with WJCT to launch The Jaxson

July 9, 2018 | Ennis Davis

The creators of Modern Cities, in association with WJCT Public Broadcasting, are launching The Jaxson, a new website dedicated to urbanism and culture on Florida’s First Coast.

Top 100 US Cities Ranked By 2017 Population

May 24, 2018 | Ennis Davis

The Census Bureau recently released their 2017 estimates for the country's largest cities. Here's a look at the latest numbers for the country's largest 100 cities. Find out where your...

103 floors above the Second City: Chicago

May 17, 2018 | Ennis Davis

A look at Chicago, home of the world's first skyscraper, from the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower (formerly the Sears Tower).

Liberty Public Market: From Navy Mess Hall to Food Hall

April 22, 2018 | Ennis Davis

From downtown urban areas to suburban shopping malls and strip centers, food halls are continuing to thrive within the communities they serve. Here's a look at the transformation of a...

A view from above: St. Patrick's Day in Chicago

March 18, 2018 | Ennis Davis

In Chicago for an Alfred Benesch & Company (Benesch) Emerging Leaders Leadership Development Program, Modern Cities' Ennis Davis takes a look at one of the country's most famous St. Patrick's...

Starbucks Targeting Stores In Minority Neighborhoods

March 18, 2018 | Mike Field

Starbucks is launching a long-term effort to create local jobs, provide training opportunities for youth and invest in local minority-owned businesses.

The Salvation Army Is Opening Affordable Grocery Stores

March 12, 2018 | Mike Field

Salvation Army grocery stores to open across the United States to provide lower income families with better access to healthy foods.

Florida Public Utilities moving to Wildlight

January 31, 2018 | Ennis Davis

Energy provider to relocate Florida headquarters to Nassau County community.

5 chains possibly headed for bankruptcy in 2018

January 7, 2018 | Ennis Davis

5 major chains likely to close stores or file for bankruptcy in 2018.

Top 25 Modern Cities Articles of 2017

December 29, 2017 | Ennis Davis

The top 25 most popular Modern Cities articles of 2017 by number of views.

Turning Parking Spaces Into Grocery Stores

December 20, 2017 | Mike Field

The Moby Mart is an autonomous, staffless, mobile store, turning every parking space in the world into a potential new 24-hour store.

Jacksonville's pitch for Amazon HQ2

December 15, 2017 | Ennis Davis

Like nearly every major metropolitan area in the country, Jacksonville is preparing to give up its goodies to land Amazon's coveted second headquarters. Here's a brief video highlighting the city's...

The interesting architectural works of Gene Leedy

November 29, 2017 | Ennis Davis

Sometimes called Sarasota Modern, the Sarasota School of Architecture is a modern style of architecture embracing Florida's climate that came to prominence following the end of World War II.

New Program Helping Minority Developers Rebuild Detroit

October 31, 2017 | Mike Field

Innovative, two-year pilot program provides critical capital and training for next generation of developers building communities of opportunity.

Which U.S. Cities Have Changed The Most This Decade?

October 23, 2017 | Mike Field

Analysis looks at a decade of data to determine which communities are undergoing dynamic transformations, and which are standing still.

America's 5 Biggest Casinos

September 23, 2017 | Ennis Davis

Guest post by Conall Bennett

Nordstrom Opening Stores With No Merchandise

September 14, 2017 | Mike Field

New concept from retailer Nordstrom features personal stylists, manicurists, a tailor, beer and wine - but no clothing, shoes or merchandise of any kind.

Amazon's Mobile Stores Rolling Out Nationwide

July 24, 2017 | Mike Field

Amazon's Treasure Trucks hawk everything from GoPros to poke bowls and Harry Potter books.

Walmart Testing Out Grocery Pickup Store Concept

June 16, 2017 | Mike Field

The nation's largest brick and mortar retailer gearing up to fight rival Amazon's grocery concept.

Top 100 US Cities Ranked By 2016 Population

June 8, 2017 | Ennis Davis

The Census Bureau recently released their 2016 estimates for the country's largest cities. Here's a look at the latest numbers for the country's largest 100 cities. Find out where your...

WJCT Business Brief: Reuse and Revitalization in Jax

May 31, 2017 | Ennis Davis

Each week, WJCT News Director Jessica Palombo talks with Modern Cities about the latest business trends affecting the First Coast. During this week's Monday morning business brief, Ennis Davis, AICP...

11 Great Free Museums in Florida

May 18, 2017 | Ennis Davis

In honor of National Museum Day, here's 11 free admission cultural destinations worth visiting in Florida.

DT Long Beach Project Gives a Glimpse into the Past

April 6, 2017 | Ennis Davis

Viewers installed throughout downtown Long Beach gives visitors a glimpse into the city's past.

Did Ikea Just Solve The Affordable Housing Crisis?

March 30, 2017 | Mike Field

Ikea’s solar-powered, flat pack home can be deployed in neighborhoods, disaster zones or deserts. Has the Swedish retailer made a major breakthrough in affordable housing?

What Will Trump's Budget Cut In Your City?

March 20, 2017 | Mike Field

A look at what the President's proposed budget will mean for cities, and reaction from city leaders.

Memphis Wants To Shrink

February 13, 2017 | Mike Field

After decades of sprawl, Memphis begins to reconsider its growth pattern and chart a new course towards fiscal sustainability.

Ybor City Bans Truck Traffic, Eyes A Balanced Future

January 30, 2017 | Mike Field

As heavy truck traffic is removed from the streets of Ybor City, efforts to return the area to its place as one of West Florida's most vibrant urban neighborhoods receive...

Milwaukee Bucks Enter The Placemaking Business

January 29, 2017 | Mike Field

The Milwaukee Bucks advance plans to construct a community gathering space adjacent to the new Wisconsin Entertainment & Sports Center that will serve as a year-round hub for activity in...

Top 25 Modern Cities Articles of 2016

December 30, 2016 | Ennis Davis

The top 25 most popular Modern Cities articles of 2016 by number of views.

27 things about Mobile that you didn't know

December 28, 2016 | Ennis Davis

Did you know that Mobile, AL is home to the tallest building on the Gulf Coast between Houston and South Florida? If not, here's 27 other things you probably didn't...

Designing for Health with the WELL Building Standard

December 14, 2016 | Ennis Davis

Architects-In-Training Ledia Durmishaj and Samantha Wai provide a behind the scenes look into the design of Gresham, Smith & Partners (GS&P). Located on the top floor of One Enterprise Center,...

Mayor wants viaduct gone: 5 examples of razing freeways

December 1, 2016 | Ennis Davis

Jacksonville Mayor Lenny Curry recently announced his desire for state funding to begin removing the Hart Bridge Expressway ramps along the downtown riverfront as early as next year. For those...

Shocking Facts About The Millennial Generation

November 24, 2016 | Ennis Davis

Millennials. It’s a term we hear often, but what exactly does it mean? Well, for starters, it represents the largest generation currently on our planet, who just so happen to...

Amazon planning to open 2,000 drive thru grocery stores

November 2, 2016 | Ennis Davis

Amazon plans to build 2,000 drive through grocery stores across the country. Is America ready?

ULI recognizes real estate projects in North Florida

October 25, 2016 | Ennis Davis

ULI North Florida recently hosted the 5th Annual Awards for Excellence event in downtown Jacksonville to showcase projects throughout North Florida that represent the best practices in all aspects of...

Charleston's International African American Museum

October 6, 2016 | Ennis Davis

A look at plans to develop the International African American Museum on the very site where an estimated 100,000 enslaved West Africans entered the United States.

St. Petersburg: A mecca for walkable new construction?

September 13, 2016 | Ennis Davis

Once a major retirement destination known as 'God's Waiting Room' and stagnant growth, St. Petersburg is proving that new home construction doesn't always mean building farther out.

Outdoor Food Hall Opens in Miami

August 10, 2016 | Mike Field

While a 25,000 sq ft, multi-million dollar food hall recently opened after over a year in the making just blocks away, a similar concept had already activated a blighted lot...

Miami Worldcenter: 2nd largest US urban project begins

August 9, 2016 | Ennis Davis

Phase one construction of Miami Worldcenter, America’s second-largest luxury urban development, is now underway.

5 Popular Historic Wholesale Districts

June 28, 2016 | Ennis Davis

A wholesale district is an area where a compact cluster of intermediary entities that buy in bulk and sell to resellers rather than to consumers are located. Here's a quick...

Top 100 US Cities Ranked By 2015 Population

May 23, 2016 | Ennis Davis

The Census Bureau recently released their 2015 estimates for the country's largest cities. Here's a look at the latest numbers for the country's largest 100 cities. Find out where your...

10 Free Things to Do In Atlanta

March 10, 2016 | Ennis Davis

Article by Kristen Pickrell

Greenville's Amazing Transformation

March 9, 2016 | Ennis Davis

Article by Ennis Davis, AICP

Chelsey Goes to Seattle

March 9, 2015 | Ennis Davis

In preparation the 2016 American Planning Association (APA) National Planning Conference in Phoenix, AZ, we look back at a young planner's recollection of attending the conference for the first time...