JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Block Jax, an outdoor food hall that had its grand opening this past weekend in the Deerwood area, drew big crowds and sparked complaints about parking just as a busy sports weekend gets underway.
The venue features live music and a 30-foot screen that is expected to draw fans for the NCAA men’s tournament, the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp season opener and other major events.
Owner Daniel Moffatt told News4JAX the grand opening weekend was packed, but parking quickly became the biggest headache.
“It was very successful. A lot of people came out,” Moffatt said. “Seemed like half the city ended up showing up.”
During opening weekend, News4JAX crews saw vehicles parked on grass, medians and sidewalks, as well as in nearby business parking lots. Some visitors reported their cars were towed after parking in lots not authorized for Block Jax customers, and the situation drew significant discussion on social media.
One Facebook commenter wrote, “I drove past and the line was down the block!!! Had to find food somewhere else. Excited to try it though.” Another said, “Still had a great time (there) today regardless of the parking.”
The Block Jax later posted a public service announcement on social media saying parking in its lot is free, but warning that drivers who park at surrounding businesses could be towed. The post said the venue is “actively looking into solutions to increase parking and transportation into The Block,” and urged visitors to consider ride-hailing services or other transportation options.
Moffatt said The Block Jax lot has 125 spaces and advised visitors to be patient as spots open up.
“If you’re coming to visit, same thing — circle our parking lot a few times. Hopefully you can find parking,” he said. “There are people coming and going.”
If the lot is full, Moffatt said customers may use overflow parking next door at Community First during after-hours periods when the business is closed.
Adding that visitors should avoid parking in other private lots nearby. “Stay off their grass, stay out of their lot and we should be good.”
Moffatt said he is working on additional solutions, including discussions with larger nearby businesses that have underused parking capacity on weekends.
“I’ve reached out to a couple of the larger businesses down the road that have 400 or 500 spot parking lots,” he said. “So I’m hopeful that we can get a solution where we can have some parking just down the road… close enough for us to valet or shuttle people.”
Moffatt also encouraged visitors to consider options beyond driving, including ride-sharing, walking, biking, or carpooling if possible.
He said there have been ongoing meetings with city leaders to work toward term fixes as crowds continue to grow.
News4JAX will continue tracking the parking plan and update this story as additional solutions are announced.
What to know before you go
- On-site parking: The Block Jax lot has 125 spaces.
- Avoid towing: Do not park in surrounding private business lots unless explicitly authorized.
- Overflow option: Moffatt says Community First next door is allowing overflow parking after hours when it is closed.
- Consider alternatives: Ride-share, walking, biking, or carpooling.