What a difference six years makes.
During the 2011 Jacksonville elections, mayoral and City Council candidates debated whether Downtown development should be a priority.
One contender was even criticized in a negative TV ad for his plans to boost economic activity in the city center.
In 2017, the debate is over.
This momentum is encouraging.
But like any engine, Downtown revitalization needs a constant supply of fuel to keep running. Unfortunately, the city agency charged with overseeing Downtown revival is nearing an empty gas tank.
In August 2012, the Jacksonville City Council unanimously approved the creation of the Downtown Investment Authority. A board of nine community members and a small team of professional staff run the DIA. Their work is crucial to the city center’s forward progress.
