JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The City of Jacksonville held a ribbon-cutting ceremony Friday morning to celebrate the official opening of the new Riverfront Plaza Park.
During the ceremony, Mayor Donna Deegan talked about the importance of this park, specifically what it means for the city.
“This park is more than just a green space. It is another bold step forward in reclaiming our riverfront is the heart of the city,” Deegan said.
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The mayor touted the progress that’s been made around downtown, specifically highlighting the completion of Friendship Fountain, and more recently, RiversEdge Parks on the Southbank.
“These parks are public infrastructure. Our new parks are also economic development. They are worthy investments that strengthen our neighborhoods, support our local businesses, attract new opportunities, bring in tourists, and certainly elevate our quality of life,” Deegan said.
The Riverfront Plaza development marked a significant transformation of the riverfront space previously home to the Jacksonville Landing, which closed in July 2019 after a 32-year run.
The completed first phase of the project features expanded public spaces and improved waterfront access. Phase Two of the development will introduce additional amenities, including a beer garden, rain garden, and a new bike and pedestrian connection to the Main Street Bridge.