JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Developers are calling the long-awaited 220 Riverside apartment complex cutting-edge. The new residential community of 220 Riverside will open next week, months later than its original opening date, which was delayed when the building was vandalized and flooded.
From the second to the sixth floors, there are luxury open-floor plans, tons of amenities and a first-floor rooftop pool, the property manager said.
Unity Plaza sits right next to 220 Riverside, which will soon be the home to hundreds of new residents, playing a major role in Riverside redevelopment.
"When we came and put our footprint in, everybody started to follow," property manager Kelly Treadaway said. "They knew that the residential piece was coming. It was very big for the area."
In less than a year, Brooklyn Station was created, including the Fresh Market grocery store and several shops and restaurants. The businesses are already cashing in on the area's redevelopment, even before 220 Riverside opens.
"It has been very busy, very good, great foot traffic from the Fresh Market," said Natalie Lanza, manager of Marilyn Monroe Nail Lounge.
Lanza said when word got around about the new apartments and food market, the owners didn't think twice about opening the beauty salon.
"Anytime new businesses are coming up and you can get more jobs for people, more businesses, more residential, I think it's going to be great," Lanza said.
The convenience of the Brooklyn Station and residential communities are drawing people in, including bikers and walkers.
"I'm a new owner here, so I like to see all the new developments," Lucille Lustig said.
"Before, it wasn't really that classy. Not to knock it, but it's really classy now," Riverside resident Michael Krone said.
Krone said he thinks the development will bring lots of money to the area.
Residents at 220 Riverside will begin moving in Monday, but at Brooklyn Station, there's a lot of construction still going on with several restaurants and shops that will be opening up later this year.