Breathing new life into downtown

Towns and cities are defined by their downtowns, and Jacksonville’s has learned from the challenges faced by all   communities.

More than a decade in the making, a downtown resurgence has come to a head, with the award-winning Jacksonville Main Street organization leading the way.

In 2010, a major revitalization of the city’s downtown square got under way and since then has transformed the life of the square.

With the completion of construction around the square in 2011, the area has become a jewel of the city. By the end of the project it had already attracted more than 20 new and relocated businesses. Since then, more small-business owners have come to the area and some existing businesses have begun their own projects to expand and renovate.

Those who visit the city can choose between several dining spots, take in a movie and shop at wide variety of retail locations, all without ever leaving the downtown area.

Ongoing renovation in the downtown area will open the central business district to new development and new customers alike.

A Downtown Celebration, first held in the spring of 2011, promises to be an annual event with a focus on recognizing progress seen not only in the heart of the city but in the community at large.

The downtown is already home to a variety of festivals, tastes and volunteer efforts that make the square a lively place thoughout the year.

Dotting the downtown landscape are intricate works of art on buildings. The paintings by the Wall Dogs, a group of artists and sign painters, were done in summer 2006; 10 murals depict Jacksonville’s history.

For more information:

www.jacksonvillemainstreet.com