News Summary
A partnership between Housing Trust Group LLC and Cathedral District Jacksonville has revealed plans for a mixed-income apartment community in downtown Jacksonville. The proposal includes 85 units, with 75 dedicated to affordable housing and a total project cost of approximately $36.5 million. Construction is projected to commence within a year, aiming to enhance the area’s housing options and create a vibrant community space.
Exciting New Housing Development Proposal in Downtown Jacksonville!
Jacksonville is buzzing with news of a proposed development that promises to bring some fresh, affordable living options to the heart of the city. On April 4, a partnership between Miami-based Housing Trust Group LLC and Cathedral District Jacksonville revealed plans for an impressive mixed-income apartment community that could change the landscape of downtown. This exciting project aims to construct 85 units on three city-owned parcels at 216, 222, and 228 E. Duval St.
What’s in the Proposal?
The shiny new apartment community will be discussed at the Downtown Investment Authority (DIA) committee meeting on April 10. If all goes well, this proposal could be the beginning of something great for Jacksonville’s affordable housing scene! The development will not only provide much-needed housing options but also create a vibrant space for both residents and the surrounding community.
The plans detail a spacious project with a total cost of around $36.5 million. It will feature 1,200 square feet of ground-floor commercial and retail space, a structured parking garage on the first two levels, and a welcoming 1,400-square-foot entrance lobby. Residents can also look forward to a generous 8,295-square-foot amenity space, boasting a lounge area, business center, library, fitness center, and a pool lounge! And let’s not forget the fantastic 6,755-square-foot outdoor amenity area that includes a 760-square-foot swimming pool, a barbecue grill, lounge areas, and extra space for activities!
How Will the Units Be Allocated?
Out of the 85 units proposed, a generous portion is dedicated to affordability. 75 of the units will be reserved for households earning at or below 80% of the area median income, while 10 units will be offered at unrestricted market rates. The layout includes 70 one-bedroom and 15 two-bedroom apartments, making it an appealing option for a variety of households.
Who Will Benefit?
Families looking for affordable housing will find a great opportunity here. For those eyeing the one-bedroom units, they will have options based on their income:
– 10 units will cater to low-income households earning up to $23,340.
– 24 affordable units are aimed at those earning up to $46,680.
– 30 workforce units will serve households earning up to $54,460.
Meanwhile, the two-bedroom options will be similarly accessible, offering:
– 2 units at low-income rates.
– 3 affordable units.
– 6 workforce housing options.
Site and Financial Details
The city-owned parcels are valued at a combined total of $271,000, which the partnership will receive for free, provided they follow through with the development. Notably, the DIA previously spent $200,000 to demolish unsafe structures on the property, preparing it for this new lease on life. Over the span of 20 years post-completion, the city anticipates gaining approximately $779,971 in tax revenue, while the apartment project is projected to generate around $3.09 million in property taxes!
Timeline for Construction
Construction is expected to break ground within 12 months of finalizing a redevelopment agreement, with substantial completion targeted 24 months after that. The development partnership plans to apply for state tax credits for affordable housing and an Affordable Housing Support Loan from the DIA at its May 2025 board meeting.
The Bigger Picture
This proposed project could be a game-changer for the Cathedral Hill District, an area focused on revitalizing the community while maintaining its unique character. With Housing Trust Group at the helm—an organization that has successfully developed over 8,000 multifamily housing units nationwide—there’s a lot of optimism surrounding this proposal.
The designer for this exciting project, Jacksonville-based PQH Group Design, along with property management by HTG Management LLC, is believed to bring a fresh perspective to the neighborhood. The upcoming DIA meeting on April 10 at the main Jacksonville Public Library promises to be a key moment in moving this development forward, expecting to draw significant interest from the community.
As Jacksonville looks forward to this potential development of mixed-income housing, it comes with a sense of hope for enriching the area, making it more inclusive, and fulfilling the growing needs for affordable housing options in this vibrant city!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Jon Paul Pérez Takes Over as CEO of Related Group
Miami-Dade County Advances Affordable Housing Initiative
Jacksonville Father Advocates for Vital Road Repairs
Jacksonville City Council to Vote on Development Review Board
Riviera Beach Unveils New Mixed-Use Development Plans
Jacksonville Community Land Trust Secures Grant for Housing
South Florida’s Housing Hurdles: Affordable Living Spaces Just Out of Reach
New Apartment Development in Davie: Parks at Davie
Jacksonville Residents Celebrate Drop in Cost of Living
Additional Resources
- Jax Daily Record: $36.5 Million Affordable Housing Development Planned
- News4Jax: Habitat for Humanity Building New Houses for Affordable Housing
- First Coast News: Affordable Housing Leaders Discuss Solutions for Duval
- Wikipedia: Affordable Housing
- Jax Daily Record: North Jacksonville Affordable Housing Community for Older Residents
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Housing
