Jacksonville Approves Riverfront Plaza Phase Two Plans

The latest park design features a restaurant, beer garden, and a 14-swing deck.

Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Dining Out

Jacksonville Approves Riverfront Plaza Phase Two Plans

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Do you support the planned features for the new Riverfront Plaza in your community?

The city of Jacksonville has officially approved civil and landscaping plans for the second phase of Riverfront Plaza. The project includes a restaurant with a rooftop walkway, a beer garden, and a central lawn.

Why it matters

The development integrates urban recreational space with new infrastructure, connecting the park directly to the Main Street Bridge. This expansion is designed to enhance public access to the St. Johns River waterfront.

The approved design includes a 14-swing set situated along the south edge of the park. Plans also call for a 20-floor hotel and condominium tower proposed for the northeast corner of the plaza.

The players

Gateway Jax

This real estate firm is the developer proposing the 20-floor hotel and condominium tower at the plaza site.

GAI Consultants

This engineering and design firm submitted the civil and landscaping plans for the plaza development.

Perkins & Will

This global architecture and design practice collaborated on the submitted plans for the park expansion.

The details

GAI Consultants and Perkins & Will submitted the designs, which feature a deck area and a pedestrian link to the Main Street Bridge. A new stairway will connect the park directly to the proposed hotel and condominium tower.

October 23, 2026: City of Jacksonville approves phase two plans.

Culture Shift

The city's approval of Riverfront Plaza follows the established guidelines of the Jacksonville Riverfront Plaza master plan. This progress marks a significant step toward modernizing downtown waterfront usage.

Residents can anticipate a new public space offering dining and recreation along the St. Johns River. The addition of the pedestrian link will simplify travel between the plaza and the Main Street Bridge for daily commuters and visitors.

The takeaway

The transformation of Riverfront Plaza signals a commitment to creating vibrant downtown gathering spots in the city center. Residents should watch for upcoming construction announcements as the city moves toward executing the site's full design vision.