JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – For years, one of Jacksonville’s most prominent pieces of riverfront land has sat empty — a quiet stretch along the Southbank just steps from Friendship Fountain.
Now, that could soon change.
A long-awaited development planned for the former River City Brewing site appears to be moving closer to reality, with city leaders signaling a potential groundbreaking as soon as next month.
The project, led by Miami-based developer Related Group, would transform the site into a multi-million dollar development featuring nearly 400 apartment units, along with restaurants, retail space, and outdoor areas designed to connect directly to the Southbank Riverwalk.
Plans show two residential towers — including one rising up to 25 stories — along with amenities such as a pool deck, fitness center, and a rooftop sky lounge overlooking the St. Johns River.
The site itself has remained vacant since the River City Brewing restaurant was demolished years ago, despite multiple proposals and growing interest in developing the area.
The current version of the project has been in the works since 2020, but like many large-scale developments, it has faced several hurdles.
Rising construction costs and changing market conditions forced developers to revise the plans over time.
Earlier versions of the project were scaled and redesigned after projected costs came in significantly higher than expected, leading to updated agreements with the city.
Despite those challenges, recent developments suggest momentum may be building.
Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan told News4JAX the developer is planning to break ground in May — a potential turning point for a project that has been closely watched by city leaders and residents alike.
If construction moves forward as expected, the development could take several years to complete. Once finished, it would bring new housing and commercial activity to a highly visible stretch of the riverfront.
The project is also part of a broader effort to revitalize downtown Jacksonville, particularly along the Southbank, where leaders have been focused on adding density, attracting businesses, and creating more walkable, active spaces along the river.
For now, the site remains empty — but for the first time in years, there are growing signs that could soon change.