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Register Today for Public Meeting #2

Join our second open Public Meeting on Tuesday, July 13 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Zoom. Hear about progress so far, insights from our task force and public conversations, and what to expect over the next few months. Register here to join the meeting!

Newly Released: Urban Planning Principles and Shipyards Conceptual Plans

On June 24, DIA CEO Lori Boyer shared updates from our work around social, cultural and public space planning principles that can help inform future conversations about Riverfront development. She also previewed our current Shipyards Conceptual Plans which put those planning principles into practice for one of our most important activation opportunities. View the principles and conceptual plans.

Meet Members of Our Stakeholder Groups

We asked several members of our stakeholder groups what they believe are Jacksonville's greatest assets. Hear their thoughts below and check out our full Task Force, Activation Coalition and NextGen group!

Betzy Santiago is a Business Solutions Strategist at Florida State College at Jacksonville and a member of our Task Force. Betzy says:

"Jacksonville's greatest physical asset is its waterways. From the beaches to the river, there is water all around us creating opportunities for us to learn, work, and play. As residents of this community, it is our duty to protect that asset and find ways to maximize its use."

Hon. Ashantae Green is Supervisor of Duval Soil & Water Conservation District 4 and a member of our NextGen group. Ashantae says:

"I feel that Jacksonville’s greatest asset is the people. The diversity, talent & passion flows throughout our city just as the tributaries of the St. John’s River do."

David McGowan is President and CEO of WJCT Public Media and a member of our Activation Coalition. David says:

"Jacksonville’s greatest asset is its welcoming attitude - along with its river!"

Project Partners

This project, undertaken by the Jessie Ball duPont Fund, is being led by DVDL, an agency of cultural forecasters working with cultural institutions and public spaces around the country, in collaboration with WXY Studio, a New York-based design and planning firm, and Groundwork Jacksonville, our city's nonprofit dedicated to creating a more walkable, livable community. JLP+D is our funding strategy partner.

Project Goals and Timeline

The goal of the Activation Plan is to provide recommendations for programs, activities, and events to create a vibrant riverfront year-round.

Throughout the summer, the duPont Fund is helping to convene a series of conversations and events with stakeholders, community groups, and residents about how best to activate our city’s downtown riverfront for the benefit of all of our residents and visitors. The plan will be presented to the public in Fall 2021.

Written by
Melanie Cost Young