Local surfers and enthusiasts are one step closer to enjoying a state-of-the-art surf park in South Jacksonville. On February 19, 2025, the City Council’s Land Use and Zoning Committee unanimously approved a rezoning proposal for the Jacksonville Surf Park, paving the way for a full City Council vote.
Key Takeaways
- The Land Use and Zoning Committee voted 7-0 to rezone the eTown site for the surf park.
- The proposed development includes residential units and various commercial facilities.
- The project is backed by global surf park creator Aventuur and local partners.
Overview of the Jacksonville Surf Park
The Jacksonville Surf Park is set to be developed on a 55.27-acre site located at 11374 Etown Parkway, part of a larger 237.4-acre development near the Florida 9B and Interstate 295 interchange. The project aims to create a mixed-use environment that caters to both recreational and residential needs.
The rezoning, approved under Ordinance 2025-0007, transitions the land from Commercial Community General-1 to Planned Unit Development. This change allows for the construction of up to 3,500 residential units and 3.6 million square feet of nonresidential space, which will include:
- An outdoor surf park
- Recreational facilities
- Restaurants with on- and off-premises liquor licenses
- Retail outlets and food markets
- Nightclubs and similar establishments
- Child and adult daycare services
- Auto service stations and banks
Development Plans and Conditions
The approval from the Land Use and Zoning Committee came with specific conditions aimed at ensuring the project aligns with community standards. These include:
- A requirement for a comprehensive traffic study to assess the impact of the new development on local traffic patterns.
- Restrictions on the size of project identity signs along Florida 9B, limiting them to a maximum height of 65 feet and an area of 300 square feet.
The property is owned by Westland Timber LLC, affiliated with the Davis family, and the project is being designed by Prosser | Prime AE, a local architecture and engineering firm.
Community Impact and Future Prospects
The Jacksonville Surf Park is expected to be a significant addition to the local community, providing a unique recreational opportunity for surfers and those interested in learning the sport. The project not only aims to enhance the recreational landscape of South Jacksonville but also to stimulate economic growth through job creation and increased tourism.
As the proposal moves to the full City Council for final consideration, local residents and surfers are hopeful for a positive outcome that will bring this exciting project to fruition. The surf park is anticipated to become a hub for both locals and visitors, promoting an active lifestyle and community engagement.
With the unanimous support from the committee, the Jacksonville Surf Park is on track to become a reality, marking a new chapter in the city’s recreational offerings.
Sources
- Jacksonville Surf Park advances to full City Council vote | Jax Daily Record, Jacksonville Daily Record.
