FERNANDINA BEACH, Fla. – The Fernandina Beach City Commission voted unanimously last week to emphasize the urgency of addressing the demolition of Brett’s Waterway Cafe and determining the future of its riverfront location, according to the Fernandina Observer.
During their annual “visioning session,” commissioners focused on both major infrastructure projects and city operations. On a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 indicating the highest priority, all commissioners ranked Brett’s at the top of the list.
According to the Fernandina Observer, the restaurant’s lease on the city-owned building expires on Dec. 31, and with its substructure over the Amelia River in need of costly repairs, the city agreed demolition is the best option.
RELATED | Fernandina Beach restaurant declared structurally unsafe by city
In July 2021, the Fernandina Beach restaurant was declared structurally unsafe due to the “active collapse of concrete double-tee structure member.” The notice also said there was an elevated risk of substructure failure, collateral damage, and repairs necessary.
The restaurant had until Sept. 2, 2021 to repair the building.
Brett’s, located on S Front Street, is currently open to the public.