Jacksonville Today
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Jacksonville Today seeks to include a diverse set of perspectives that add context or unique insight to the news of the day. Regular opinion columnists are independent contractors who are not involved in news decisions. Want to submit your own column on a matter of public interest? Email pitches to jessica@jaxtoday.org.
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News
Nassau County school books settlement reached
36 books will be returning to school libraries after being removed last year after children’s book authors and parents sued…
News
FSCJ opens Nassau County’s first state college commercial truck training center
Florida State College at Jacksonville has cut the ribbon on its new Commercial Vehicle Driving program in Nassau County.…
News
Locally owned company buys Serenata Beach Club for $1.5 million
The Serenata Beach Club in Ponte Vedra Beach was sold at auction on Thursday for $1.5 million.…
News
Jacksonville congressional district debated in Florida Supreme Court
The Florida Supreme Court heard arguments about the constitutionality of a congressional redistricting plan that Gov. Ron DeSantis championed in…
News
A visitor ‘favorite’ ape dies at Jax Zoo, the 4th from Shigella outbreak
Tuesday, the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens announced the death of 3-year-old Kevin.…
News
5 Duval students arrested for threatening schools, the youngest 11 years old
The sheriff and school superintendent jointly announced the arrests of five young students on charges of making threats against their…
News
Permanent fire station coming to Jacksonville’s Cedar Point
Ground was broken on Fire Station 76, which will replace a temporary station in Northeast Jacksonville.…
News
‘Agrihood’ would bring 3,300 homes to St. Johns County
Boston-based Freehold Communities, the developer of Shearwater in St. Johns County, is working with St. Augustine landowners on a new…
News
Judge to weigh putting Florida meat law on ice
A federal judge will hear arguments next month about whether he should block a new Florida law that bars the…
News
After 32 years, iconic British pub in St. Augustine to close Sunday
The King’s Head British Pub owner says a drop-off in customers means she can’t cover her costs some days.…
Arts Picks
ARTS PICKS | Sept. 13-15
Parrotheads, this is your weekend to catch the Jacksonville Symphony. Also, Florida Fin Fest returns to Jax Beach, and MOCA…
News
Jacksonville City Council approves community benefits agreement with Jaguars
Countywide spending approved in the community benefits agreement will be $40 million over 15 years, with $40 million additionally for…
The Jaxson
THE JAXSON | Florida’s 5 largest cities in 1900
Even in 1900, when Florida was the 32nd largest state in the country, Jacksonville was by far its largest city.…
News
Westside residents steamed over liquor store coming soon near OakLeaf
The planned 11,000-square-foot Shores Liquors would be the third package store within a mile — and within walking distance of…
News
Committee chair: New developer ‘in the driver’s seat’ in Laura Street Trio project
A new player is taking a lead role in the effort to revive the Laura Street Trio in Downtown Jacksonville,…
News
Veterans’ advocate Bill Dudley given St. Augustine’s highest honor
Longtime military veterans’ advocate Bill Dudley was honored Monday with St. Augustine’s most prestigious award.…
News
Jax coding program graduates first class, who created city services dashboard
Twenty-two teens and young adults are now graduates of the city’s new Jax Code 4 Change program, aimed at harnessing…
News
DeSantis defends abortion information posted by state agency: ‘not electioneering’
With Democrats accusing the state Agency for Health Care Administration of improper politicking, Gov. Ron DeSantis on Monday described as…
News
The Beatles integrated their Jacksonville concert 60 years ago this week. An event gives a look back
On Thursday, Sept. 12, a tribute cover band and two noted historians will revisit what was the first major racially…
#AskJAXTDY
#AskJAXTDY | When will the city replace Five Points trash cans?
A Jacksonville Today reader says trash cans in the Five Points area are still causing problems.…
News
Nassau County contractor indicted on fraud charges
A contractor from Hilliard has been arrested on a 12-count indictment that alleges he failed to complete homes that customers…
News
Black historical society creates Freedom School to close knowledge gaps in Jacksonville
Freedom School is designed to help school-aged children, and their families, learn about Black history.…
News
Flooded San Marco worries about what’s next
In some ways, residents say, the flooding this week was worse than a hurricane.…
News
Beach renourishment done in St. Augustine Beach
There’s tons of new sand on St. Augustine Beach now that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has finished up…
Number of the Week
NUMBER OF THE WEEK | Jacksonville Jaguars fun facts
Add up all of Trevor Lawrence’s passing yards and you get roughly the distance from EverBank Stadium to the jaguar…
News
500-year-old map shows first written reference to Florida
If you visit the Touchton Map Library at the Tampa Bay History Center, you’ll see lots of maps depicting Florida’s…
News
Florida looks to add more nuclear power
While utilities continue to build solar facilities, nuclear power could be important in meeting future needs.…
News
More flooding threatens waterlogged First Coast
Bands of heavy rain could bring additional flooding in soggy Jacksonville over the next several days.…
News
Riverfront parks funding trimmed by $20 million
City Council’s Finance Committee objected to cost increases for three riverfront parks.…
News
PolitiFact FL: State parks proposal was further along than DeSantis let on
Statements by Gov. Ron DeSantis about developing state parks like Anastasia State Park in St. Augustine ignore critical facts, PolitiFact…
News
Edward Waters University faces trial over union shutdown
The National Labor Relations Board filed a complaint against Edward Waters University for shutting down its faculty union.…
News
Last piece added at Norman Studios silent film site
Jacksonville has purchased a two-story film stage at the Norman Studios museum, preserving one of the last fully intact silent…
News
Jacksonville lands Florida’s first autonomous vehicle plant
Holon, a German company, will build autonomous vehicles that will be used on Jacksonville’s Ultimate Urban Circulator.…
News
How climate change shapes the home insurance crisis
For more and more people, home insurance is changing their decision about where they should live.…
News
AccuWeather scales back its 2024 hurricane forecast
AccuWeather now calls for 16 to 20 named storms, six to 10 hurricanes, and three to six major hurricanes.…
News
Indian market and restaurant planned in St. Augustine
Chicha’s Cafe and Basic Pantry are planned across four units at the shopping center.…
Arts Picks
ARTS PICKS | Sept. 6-8
A riverfront bluegrass concert, new art in Riverside and Downtown, and a chamber music concert at the Beaches are this…
The Jaxson
THE JAXSON | The fascinating history of Black Hammock Island’s Cedar Point Preserve
Jacksonville’s Black Hammock Island has a fascinating history from 6,000 years of civilization. Here are four facts about Cedar Point…
News
Bistro X in San Marco will reopen with new concept
San Marco restaurant Bistro X and its adjoining sister restaurant, Limoncello Ristorante, will close Sept. 28 and reopen as a…
News
Court backs FHSAA for blocking pregame prayer
The prayer was not allowed before the 2015 state championship involving University Christian School of Jacksonville.…
News
Labor Day weekend sets hurricane season record
For the first time in almost three decades, there wasn’t a tropical storm in the Atlantic basin between Aug. 21…
News
Duval School Board OKs employee ethics policies aimed at keeping kids safer
The Duval County School Board unanimously and with little discussion Tuesday approved new employee ethics and professional standards policies. Tuesday’s…
News
Eastside Debs Store reopens with credit union and career center
Joe Debs leaned against the counter on Tuesday between a pair of registers and the memories returned. A smile did…
News
Workforce housing project rejected in St. Johns County
Despite arguments on both sides, county commissioners cited concerns about traffic, schools and infrastructure.…
News
St. Augustine Beach pier closed for decayed pillars
The St. Augustine Beach pier will be closed indefinitely until it can be repaired.…
News
Labor unions lose 63,000 members under new state law
More than 2,300 public employees in the Jacksonville area lost their union representation after their labor unions were decertified.…
News
Activist could face $130,000 bill over public records lawsuit
Curtis Lee sued prosecutors over public records and lost. Now the State Attorney’s Office says he should pay their costs.…
News
On the hunt to kill the invasive lionfish on Florida reefs
A Jacksonville man is a leader among hundreds of divers who are trying to capture the beautiful but destructive lionfish.…
News
FDOT wants us to stop trashing our roads
A new campaign called “Litter Less Live More” is trying to educate drivers about the damage caused by littering.…
News
New deals for St. Johns County library cardholders
The library’s Community Connections program is part of a monthlong push to sign up people for library cards.…
News
UF staffers racked up travel costs while working remotely
Senior staff hired by former UF President Ben Sasse piled up hundreds of thousands of dollars in travel expenses while…
News
Your JEA utility bill will cost more if you pay by credit card
Beginning in September, JEA will charge a vendor service fee to pay your utility bill by credit or debit card.…
News
Laser strikes threaten aircraft in Jacksonville
Pilots have reported at least 65 laser strikes at Jacksonville International Airport this year.…
News
Top publishers sue over Florida’s book ban law
The law, HB 1069, sparked hundreds of book bans from school libraries across Florida.…
News
Facing uproar, state withdraws park development plan
The “Great Outdoors Initiative” had called for a 350-room lodge, pickleball courts and a disc golf course at Anastasia State…
Number of the Week
NUMBER OF THE WEEK | Jacksonville Jobs
See where people in the Jacksonville area voted most in this week’s local elections.…
Voter Guides
NOV. 5 VOTER GUIDE | Compare the candidates
Compare the candidates for Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach, Atlantic Beach, state Legislature and Congress with our Candidate Comparison Tool.…
News
Climate action plan begins to form in Jacksonville
A roundtable discussion Thursday began months of groundwork to create a Clean Air Northeast Florida Climate Action Plan. More ideas…
News
St. Johns superintendent makes pitch for school taxes
St. Johns County Schools Superintendent Tim Forson makes the case for proposed new taxes that would help fund schools.…
Quiz
Which Jax Bridge Are You?
No excerpt…
News
Two JEA managers move on under new workplace rules
The supervisors, who live out of state, decided to leave the utility rather than work at least one day a…
News
Jaguars climb ranking of most valuable NFL franchises
Forbes said the Jaguars franchise is valued at $4.6 billion, up from $4 billion a year ago. That ranked the…
News
Another Douglas Anderson teacher accused of misconduct
The teacher has been reassigned after allegations they engaged in inappropriate communication with a student during the 2022-23 school year.…
News
Millions of Floridians need affordable housing, report says
The Florida Housing Coalition says at least 2.4 million families in Florida are cost burdened.…
Arts Picks
ARTS PICKS | Aug. 30-Sept. 1
Jazz, an art opening and the launch of a book about a legendary local rock club are the Labor Day…
News
Park development plan ‘half-baked,’ DeSantis says
Gov. Ron DeSantis said the state will reconsider plans that included a lodge and pickleball at Anastasia State Park in…
News
#AskJAXTDY | Is the city fixing the smashed fence at Memorial Park?
A Jacksonville Today reader asks about repairs she saw at Memorial Park – now underway by the city.…
The Jaxson
THE JAXSON | Memory lane: The Chitlin’ Circuit’s famed Two Spot Club
Moncrief’s Two Spot was said to be the finest dance palace in the country owned by an African American during…
News
JEA’s old headquarters will go on the market
The JEA board declared the 2.47-acre campus to be surplus property and authorized the CEO to sell all of parts…
News
An update on Saharan dust and the 2024 hurricane season
The hurricane season seems to be starting more slowly this year, partly because of a thick layer of Saharan dust.…
News
More moisture coming for Labor Day Weekend
Rain chances are likely to increase across the northern half of Florida by Monday as a cold front approaches.…
News
The fight to protect the mysterious Rice’s whale
Researchers estimate that fewer than 100 Rice’s whales remain in the Gulf of Mexico, the only place on Earth where…
News
Community Benefits Agreement inches ahead with money for neighborhoods
A special committee is forwarding recommendations to City Council regarding the EverBank Stadium deal with the Jaguars.…
News
Appeals court allows ban on transgender care for minors
The law prohibits transgender minors from being prescribed puberty blockers and hormonal treatments, even with their parents’ permission.…
News
You can now ride a driverless vehicle to lunch in Brooklyn
JTA is testing autonomous vehicles along Riverside Avenue in advance of launching its Ultimate Urban Circulator next summer.…
News
Faculty union pushes back on textbook reviews
The United Faculty of Florida opposes a directive from the state to review course materials for “anti-Israeli” bias.…
News
Shigella infection kills 2 bonobos at Jacksonville zoo
The deaths of brothers Jumanji and Jenga comes just four days after a western lowland gorilla died from the infection.…
News
New lawsuits and a scholarship: Families reflect one year after Dollar General shooting
Three families grieved differently on Monday – the first anniversary of the shooting rampage that targeted Black people at a…
News
JU law school opens at new Downtown site
Jacksonville’s only law school has officially opened its home in the historic former Atlantic Bank Building.…
News
School taxes will be on St. Johns ballots in November
St. Johns County voters will decide whether to extend a sales tax for school buildings and enact a new property…
News
Bread and Board plans to reopen Downtown
Owners of the restaurant at 100 W. Bay St. say failure of floor repairs has delayed reopening.…
News
Labor Day gas prices are lowest in 3 years
The average price in Florida was $3.29 on Sunday, the lowest price ahead of Labor Day since 2021.…
News
Jacksonville seeks to foreclose on Laura Street Trio
The complaint states that Trio ownership owes the city more than $800,000 in unpaid fines for municipal code violations.…
News
Soil collection ceremony marks 1-year anniversary of Dollar General shooting
More than 300 people gathered to remember AJ Laguerre, Angela Carr and Jerrald Gallion with a soil collection ceremony.…
News
Salary for city’s stadium negotiator comes under fire
Some City Council members question Mike Weinstein’s $292,006 salary now that the stadium deal is nearly complete.…
News
Jacksonville Zoo gorilla dies unexpectedly at age 35
Bulera, a female gorilla, died of a bacterial infection that can cause digestive complications.…
News
Working herd: Goats clear vegetation at Hanna Park
A team of 55 goats is clearing nuisance vegetation at Hanna Park and doing it sustainably.…
News
Jaguars QB Trevor Lawrence featured in EverBank ads
The Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback has been named EverBank’s new brand ambassador.…
News
Peterbrooke Chocolatier closes Downtown store
Peterbrooke first opened Downtown in February 2016, but business reportedly was slow.…
News
Residents and businesses say no to row houses in Riverside
Despite concerns about a parking “nightmare,” the city’s Planning Commission backed the project.…
News
State proposal could add clarity on felon voting
The new process would notify felons how to restore their voting rights after they’ve completed their sentences.…
News
Second hurricane tax-free holiday set to start in Florida
The Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday runs from Aug. 24 through Sept. 6.…
News
Most young women in Florida support abortion, survey finds
Support for abortion access in Florida cuts across party lines, according to a survey published this month by the KFF…
News
What is a tsunami? Could it happen along the East Coast?
Tsunamis can happen pretty much anywhere where the ocean’s floor moves.…
Number of the Week
NUMBER OF THE WEEK | Most Northeast Florida voters stayed home in August
See where people in the Jacksonville area voted most in this week’s local elections.…
News
High school football kicks off Friday in Northeast Florida
Here’s the local high school football schedule for the season-opening week across the Jacksonville area.…
News
Affordable housing complex takes applications Downtown
The Lofts at Cathedral is pre-leasing units on Duval Street in the Cathedral District.…
News
Opponents protest Anastasia State Park plans
Conservation groups and others oppose the state’s plan to add a lodge and other recreation areas to Anastasia State Park.…
News
State offers credit monitoring after cyberattack
The Florida Department of Health says it is notifying people whose personal data might have been affected.…
News
Expanded Chili’s opens at Jacksonville airport
The expansion at the airport’s top-grossing restaurant adds about 50% more space, including additional bar seating.…
News
#AskJAXTDY l Can people hand out political flyers near polling locations?
A Jacksonville Today reader wants to know whether political groups can pass out pamphlets near polling sites.…
News
2 indicted in drug-related shooting on I-95
The two Jacksonville men are suspected of running a large drug operation between California and Jacksonville.…
News
Lodge and pickleball proposed at Anastasia State Park
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection is considering similar developments around the state to expand access to parks.…
Arts Picks
ARTS PICKS | Aug. 23-25
The Jacksonville Caribbean Carnival, free art museum visits, and a performance honoring a Latin-jazz great are this week’s Arts Picks.…
The Jaxson
THE JAXSON | The history of Jacksonville’s Lakeshore neighborhood
Lakeshore has a history and built environment shaped by housing booms, bubbles and busts of early 20th century Jacksonville.…
News
2 incumbents lose seats on St. Johns County commission
Roy Alaimo and Henry Dean lose to challengers Ann Taylor and Clay Murphy, who are promising to slow growth in…
News
Ashley Wells Cox wins 4th Circuit judge seat
Ashley Wells Cox was elected to the 4th Judicial Circuit Court bench, beating Nancy Cleaveland.…
News
Nixon trounces Priestly Jackson in House District 13
With most of the vote counted, state Rep. Angie Nixon amassed more than 80% over Brenda Priestly Jackson in the…
News
Duval School Board: 2 Moms for Liberty candidates elected; Pearson wins narrowly
The Duval County School Board will have a Moms for Liberty majority in the fall.…
News
Aug. 20 primary election results for Northeast Florida
Voters decided Tuesday on races for school board, county commission, judges, legislators and others.…
News
Advocates hope to revive affordable housing plan
An affordable housing plan that could add 1,000 reasonably priced homes to Jacksonville is hanging in limbo.…
News
Restaurant owners charged after immigration raids
Hua Yao Ke and Ping Ping Zheng are accused of harboring undocumented workers after raids at Kamiya 86 in Ponte…
News
St. Johns County tosses new trash company
After only three weeks on the job, FCC Environmental is out as St. Johns County’s trash and recycling hauler.…
News
Nocatee residents fight Jacksonville cell tower
Residents have collected nearly 1,500 signatures opposing the tower, which they consider an eyesore and health hazard.…
News
New public artwork offers peace to grieving families
“On Allison’s Wings” was dedicated to 15-year-old Allison Brundick Haramis and Angels for Allison, the nonprofit formed in her memory.…
News
Patients wait as Baptist Health and Florida Blue battle over costs
If the two do not come to an agreement, as many as 50,000 people will be forced to find new…
News
Ocean Club RV park planned in Vilano Beach
DLP Capital Partners submitted plans for an RV park on almost 4 acres split by State Road A1A.…
News
Decision due on St. Johns County’s trash troubles
St. Johns County may toss its new trash collector this week after a meeting with the company Monday.…
News
Boston’s sports bar closes in North Jax after 15 years
The bar and restaurant at River City Marketplace called itself “the home of the gourmet pizza.”…
News
Former UF President Ben Sasse defends his spending
Sasse responded to a report in The Independent Florida Alligator that spending more than tripled during his tenure.…
News
Two lead in fundraising for Duval judge’s seat
Four candidates are competing for one open judge’s seat in Duval County. They’ve raised tens of thousands of dollars among…
News
More DUI patrols possible if marijuana issue passes
Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters opposes Amendment 3. He says he will consider increasing DUI patrols if voters approve it.…
News
Florida opts out of summer food assistance for kids
For the second year, the state did not accept federal assistance through the Sun Bucks program, which helps parents cover…
News
Jacksonville works to replace canceled events
The Sea & Sky Air Show and Bethune-Cookman football game are out for 2024-25; Jax River Jams also may go…
News
Want a fire truck? St. Johns County is auctioning one
The truck is among 80-plus pieces of surplus property the county will auction Saturday in St. Augustine.…
News
Rare cold front brings a less humid, sunnier weekend
North Florida will still be humid, but not the oppressive humidity we’ve had for two months.…
Number of the Week
NUMBER OF THE WEEK | Big bucks in Duval School Board elections
INTERACTIVE | See how money flows from PACs to the Duval School Board candidates…
News
Cleaveland vs. Cox: Campaign finances in race for 4th Circuit judge
Campaign finance reports indicate where candidates Nancy Cleaveland and Ashley Wells Cox are getting their money — and where they’re…
News
Flamingo Coffee Roasters may expand to Southbank
The Murray Hill bar and cafe has applied for a grant to open in the Hanania Place building on Riverside…
News
Florida’s abortion law drives women to other states
Abortions have declined in Florida since a six-week law took effect, but many women are traveling to other states or…
News
Hurricane Ernesto could bring dangerous surf to Florida
Ernesto is a large and powerful hurricane that will churn up the seas. Eventually, this movement will reach Florida’s coastline.…
News
Marker will honor victims of racist Dollar General shooting
A ceremony is scheduled Sunday to unveil the marker and other tributes.…
News
#AskJAXTDY | What is a Republican Party committeeman or committeewoman?
A Jacksonville Today reader wants to know more about candidates for state committeewoman and state committeeman.…
News
Court fight colors St. Johns County election
With the election in full swing, a court fight playing out in the background involves some key players.…
Arts Picks
ARTS PICKS | Aug. 16-18
A new art exhibit at MOCA, an art show opening in San Marco, a secret concert, and a show in…
News
Gateway Jax could begin construction soon
City Council this week approved $98.58 million in incentives for the mixed-use development in the North Core of Downtown Jacksonville.…
News
FAMU’s interim president calls on senior leaders to resign
After holding the position for only a week, Interim President Timothy Beard said a change in leadership is necessary to…
The Jaxson
THE JAXSON | The Gilded Era hotels of Henry Flagler
Railroad giant Henry Flagler was also known for his chain of Gilded Era luxury resort hotels, some of which remain…
News
A look back At Hurricane Charley, 20 years later
Hurricane Charley was one of five tropical systems that would directly impact Florida over the course of six weeks in…
News
Jacksonville City Council rejects hate-crime legislation
With only seven of the council’s 19 members voting yes, the bill — named after Johnnie Mae Chappel, who was…
News
Fernandina names skate park after Poe Pinson
The city’s skateboard park will be renamed Friday to honor the 19-year-old Olympian from Fernandina Beach.…
News
Landlords are offering more perks in Jacksonville
Nearly half of the landlords in Jacksonville are offering concessions to renters, one of the highest rates in the country,…
News
Bucking some businesses, St. Augustine puts pedestrians first
Segments of a downtown St. Augustine street are now closed to vehicles. Some residents celebrate it, but some business owners…
News
Creole restaurant to replace Burrito Gallery in Downtown
Dorothy’s Downtown will serve an upscale Southern and Creole-themed menu.…
News
Winn-Dixie in Fleming Island will become an Aldi store
Clay County is considering Aldi’s request for a permit to remodel the Winn-Dixie at 1545 County Road 220.…
News
Laura Street Trio developer to city: ‘Buy me out’
Steve Atkins has been trying to work out a public-private partnership with the city to overhaul the three buildings at…
News
Jacksonville Housing Authority picks another interim CEO
Roslyn Mixon-Phillips, a former Housing Authority commissioner, was selected as interim CEO during a search for a permanent CEO.…
News
Citizens Insurance looks to leave Downtown Jacksonville
The insurer’s lease in the EverBank building is expiring, and the company is targeting South Jacksonville for a move.…
News
Next tropical system forecast to turn away from Florida
Potential Hurricane Ernesto is taking a similar track to Debby, but it is expected to turn to the north and…
News
In Debby’s wake, heat and floodwaters remain a concern
As people begin the cleanup process this weekend, high temperatures and humidity will make efforts more difficult.…
News
Republican-backed School Board candidates key on parental rights
Parental rights are again a topic of conversation because of the prominent role they play in Florida’s increasingly partisan school…
News
City Council committee cuts DEI chief from budget
The panel’s members voted 4-2 to eliminate funding for the position of chief of diversity and inclusion.…
News
Outback Crabshack is back in St. Johns County
Eight years after suffering major hurricane damage from Hurricane Matthew, Outback Crabshack will reopen this weekend.…
News
Food court closes permanently at Jacksonville’s airport
The food court between Concourses A and C is closed so work on the new Concourse B can continue.…
News
Migrant farmworkers left vulnerable in disasters
Language barriers and immigration status are major hurdles to seeking emergency relief when natural disasters strike.…
News
Four Seasons can bring ‘a whole new market’ to Jax
Katie Mitura of Visit Jacksonville says the luxury hotel will open the area to new categories of business travelers.…
News
City Council begins chopping at mayor’s budget proposal
City Council members are proposing cutting $10 million from Mayor Donna Deegan’s $1.92 billion budget.…
News
Acting CEO resigns at Jacksonville Housing Authority
Acting CEO Vanessa Dunn was appointed in February after former CEO Dwayne Alexander resigned in January.…
News
Ollies and kick-flips abound as Artist Walk Skatepark opens
The skatepark that anchors the new Artists Walk between Riverside Arts Market and Park Street officially opened Thursday.…
Arts Picks
ARTS PICKS | Aug. 9-11
Storytelling in Riverside, new local music in Jacksonville Beach and two art museums offering free admission are this weekend’s Arts…
News
Black voter turnout courted ahead of pivotal election
Duval County has the highest percentage of Black voters in the state, but the question is how many melanated souls…
News
4 school districts target substance abuse and violence
Putnam and St. Johns County schools are teaming with other school districts to increase awareness and support for students.…
News
Norwood Plaza owner assailed over leaks and potholes
City Council member Ju’Coby Pittman joined business owners to demand repairs.…
#AskJAXTDY
#AskJAXTDY | How can you ‘run’ as a write-in candidate?
A Jacksonville Today reader wants to know more about how qualifying as a write-in candidate works in our elections.…
#AskJAXTDY
#AskJAXTDY l Is Jack in the Box still coming to Northeast Florida?
A Jacksonville Today reader is a fan of the fast food chain and wants to know if he’ll be able…
News
Water is returning under the St. Augustine Beach pier
The pier sat in sand last month after a beach renourishment project, but Tropical Storm Debby brought the water back.…
Distribute
Memorial considered to honor Dollar General victims
The historic marker would honor three Black people killed by a white supremacist in a mass shooting in Jacksonville.…
News
Indoor pickleball is coming to South Jacksonville
PickleRage plans to open in the fall at the Avenues Walk shopping center.…
News
Shad Khan: ‘We’re building a neighborhood’ in Jacksonville
The Jaguars owner told Bloomberg he’s out to create a “new core” Downtown — a dining and entertainment district around…
News
Fitch raises credit rating for city of Jacksonville
Fitch Ratings increased Jacksonville’s rating from AA- to AA+. The move should lower the city’s interest rate when borrowing money.…
News
Florida searches for ‘anti-Israeli bias’ in university coursework
In an email to university presidents, Chancellor Ray Rodrigues outlined a process for flagging courses with “antisemitic material and/or anti-Israeli…
From The Newsletter
Early voting starts today in Duval and Nassau counties
Many local races will be decided in the Aug. 20 primaries, way before the general election in November.…
News
Florida after Debby: How’s the forecast this week?
Expect rounds of thunderstorms that could sometimes be strong as rain bands associated with Debbie pass over the area.…
News
Big Lots will close in Orange Park, one of 315 nationwide
The Ohio-based chain has increased the number of stores it plans to close, but so far just one of the…
News
St. Johns may ditch new trash hauler after ‘disastrous’ start
The county estimates that more than 2,000 residents’ trash wasn’t picked up on time Aug. 1 and 2.…
News
Black Creek flooding could drive out residents
The north prong of Black Creek had reached 20 feet deep as of Tuesday afternoon — 4 feet above flood…
News
World of Beer bankruptcy won’t affect local restaurant
The World of Beer Bar & Kitchen in the Southpoint area reopened July 16. Franchisee Jay Patel said the restaurant…
News
Teachers unions target Florida’s pronoun law
The unions are fighting a law that requires educators to use pronouns that align with their sex assigned at birth.…
News
What’s next as Tropical Storm Debby creeps out of Florida?
Jacksonville could still receive 8 to 10 inches of rain as Debby moves up the Southeast coast.…
News
Debby downgraded; rain and wind continue on First Coast
Hurricane Debby was downgraded to a tropical storm late Monday morning, but the effects were continuing across Northeast Florida.…
News
Drivers asked to stay off the roads in Northeast Florida
Some roads are already flooded from Hurricane Debby, and trees have fallen onto roads.…
News
More Floridians are giving up their landlines
The number of the landlines in Florida dropped 17.7% from 2022 to 2023, according to a new report by the…
News
Hurricane Debby makes landfall; Jax expects deluge
Hurricane Debby came ashore Monday morning in the Big Bend area of Florida and was expected to creep across the…
News
Straw poll hints at election surprises in St. Johns County
More than 500 people voted in a straw poll sponsored by the St. Johns County Chamber of Commerce.…
Voter Guides
Meet the judicial candidates in the primary election
Six candidates are running for two seats in the primary election Aug. 20. Here are the remarks they made at…
News
Early voting starts soon on the First Coast
Early voting for the primary election now starts Wednesday in Duval County due to Tropical Storm Debby, with other counties…
News
Sheriff’s Office survey judges department’s work
A majority of people think the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office is doing a good job, but many Black people fear police…
News
School Board candidates find common ground at final forum
District 7 School Board candidates Melody Bolduc and Sarah Mannion discussed the issues Thursday.…
News
Tropical system is nearly certain to develop
Gov. Ron DeSantis has issued a state of emergency in Northeast Florida and across much of the state.…
News
Makeover complete on historic Green Cove street
The work on Walnut Street is the first of several projects to make downtown Green Cove Springs more of a…
News
AC Hotel by Marriott planned for Downtown Jacksonville
The six-story hotel and two-story parking deck are planned on two facing lots in Brooklyn.…
News
Debby to bring heavy rain, risk of tornadoes, strong winds Monday
The tropical wave, labeled Invest 97L, is likely to develop over the next seven days.…
News
Southern Grounds coming to St. Augustine historic district
The coffee shop will be Southern Grounds’ first location in St. Johns County.…
News
St. Johns County makes it easier to get a passport
The St. John’s County Clerk’s Office will host Passport Saturday this weekend to help people who can’t get to weekday…
News
More locations open to private and charter schools
Schools can now open in libraries, museums, theaters, cinemas, arts venues and others regardless of zoning rules.…
News
Gateway Town Center in line for redevelopment
Global Building LLC, a developer based in California, plans retail, self-storage and affordable housing.…
News
Jet pilots arriving to train at NAS Jacksonville
Residents should expect more noise as pilots train for the next few weeks at Naval Air Station Jacksonville.…
News
Downtown street could be renamed to honor Ben Frazier
Legislation before Jacksonville City Council would rename Confederate Street as Frazier Place.…
Voter Guides
AUG. 20 VOTER GUIDE | Compare Congress and Florida Legislature candidates
Compare the Northeast Florida primary candidates for state Legislature and Congress with our Candidate Comparison Tool.…
Voter Guides
AUG. 20 VOTER GUIDE | Compare Duval County candidates
Compare the Duval primary candidates for Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach, state Legislature and Congress with our Candidate Comparison Tool.…
Voter Guides
AUG. 20 VOTER GUIDE | Compare St. Johns County candidates
Compare the St. Johns primary candidates for local races, state Legislature and Congress with our Candidate Comparison Tool.…
Voter Guides
AUG. 20 VOTER GUIDE | Compare Clay County candidates
Compare the Clay primary candidates for Sheriff, School Board, state Legislature and Congress with our Candidate Comparison Tool.…
Voter Guides
AUG. 20 VOTER GUIDE | Compare Nassau County candidates
Compare the Nassau primary candidates for Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach, state Legislature and Congress with our Candidate Comparison Tool.…
News
Ransomware attack slows OneBlood operations
The not-for-profit blood bank was assessing whether donors’ personal information was compromised.…
#AskJAXTDY
#AskJAXTDY | Are Winn-Dixie stores still becoming Aldi?
A Jacksonville Today reader wonders when Aldi will convert Winn-Dixie and Harveys stores to the Aldi brand.…
News
Newest fire station opens on Lenox Avenue
The latest Jacksonville fire station replaces a 58-year-old facility that originally opened for volunteers.…
News
Medical office planned on Downtown Southbank
ShareMD will open the first non-hospital medical office development Downtown in more than 20 years.…
Arts Picks
ARTS PICKS | August 2-4
Jazz, comedy, film, visual art. There’s something for everyone in this week’s Arts Picks, hand curated by Arts and Culture…
News
District 5 School Board candidates – minus Blount – face off
Duval School Board District 5 candidates Nahshon Nicks and Hank Rogers answered questions Tuesday night.…
News
‘Ghost candidates’ in St. Johns Commission races?
Four of the most quiet candidates in the hotly contested races for St. Johns County Commission have connections to each…
News
Former JEA CEO Aaron Zahn sentenced to 4 years in prison
Zahn faced up up to nine years in prison for a scheme to sell JEA. His atttorneys said he had…
News
New hours in effect for military food assistance
Jacksonville’s Food Farmacy program will distribute free food to active-duty military on the second and fourth Thursday of every month.…
News
New skate park is ready to roll under Fuller Warren Bridge
The $8.8 million skate park will open in early August between Riverside Avenue and Park Street, but skateboarders are already…
The Jaxson
THE JAXSON | 5 urban core districts erased by urban renewal
In many U.S. cities, governments used urban renewal to erase marginalized communities from existence. Here are five examples of neighborhoods…
News
‘Computer error’ blamed for wrongful Medicaid denials
A “computer error” and bad data from third-party vendors led Florida to wrongfully strip Medicaid coverage from residents, court testimony…
From The Newsletter
New Florida poll: Trump leads; support strong for abortion and recreational weed
Republican Donald Trump has a 7-point lead over Democrat Kamala Harris among Florida voters, according to a new poll from…
News
4 arrested in slaying of Jacksonville rapper Julio Foolio
The rapper was ambushed outside a hotel in Tampa while celebrating his 26th birthday.…
News
Duval teachers can get help buying school supplies
The Jacksonville Public Education Fund is offering financial assistance to 15 Duval County schoolteachers.…
News
Bartaco gets permit to replace Black Sheep in Riverside
The taco and margarita restaurant will occupy the ground floor and rooftop of the four story building in Five Points.…
News
Aviator’s remains identified 79 years after WWII crash
Alfred Hamwey of Jacksonville was shot down in 1945 while fighting Japanese forces in New Guinea.…
News
St. Johns County offers free sandbags to residents
With hurricane season in full swing, St. Johns County will offer free sandbags to residents on Wednesday.…
News
Federal judge permanently blocks part of ‘Stop WOKE Act’
Chief U.S. District Judge Mark Walker granted a permanent injunction against a part of the law that restricted workplace training.…
News
Tropical depression could form this week on path to Florida
Forecasters say an area of disturbed weather has a 50-50 chance of developing over the next seven days.…
News
Republicans look to shore up support among Black conservatives in Jacksonville
A Black woman may be leading the presidential ticket of a major political party for the first time, but for…
News
Wells Fargo to lay off 74 in Jacksonville
The company said it will exit the global operations business unit and lay off employees at an office on Philips…
News
#AskJAXTDY | Does the city’s resilience office have any power?
A Jacksonville Today reader asks whether the city’s Office of Resilience is purely advisory and is City Hall listening?…
News
Baptist Health campus under review for Silverleaf
The medical campus would open in early 2026 with an emergency room, office space, maintenance building and later a helipad.…
News
Florida Supreme Court asked to reject abortion statement
Floridians Protecting Freedom contends a statement that will appear on the ballot with Amendment 4 is inaccurate and political.…
News
Back-to-school sales tax ‘holiday’ starts Monday
Floridians can save on clothes, school supplies, computers and more beginning Monday.…
News
Duval School Board District 1 forum: Ebri alone as Ricardo calls out sick
Nadine Ebri was one of five Teacher of the Year finalists in Duval County in 2020-21. Tony Ricardo taught at Andrew…
News
1,100 fewer Duval students qualify for buses this school year
Previously, the district bused all students who lived outside a mile-and-a-half radius of their assigned school.…
News
Highway 17 North Heritage Trail celebrates local icons
The trail will preserve the legacies of Augusta Savage, A. Philip Randolph, and brothers James Weldon and J. Rosamond Johnson.…
News
Enchantment Con will beguile Jax on Saturday
Enchantment Con will wrap together sci-fi, fantasy and cosplaying for lovers of all things fantastic.…
News
#AskJAXTDY l Can you really receive a digital vote-by-mail ballot?
A Jacksonville Today reader wants to know whether voters can receive a digital version of their vote-by-mail ballot.…
News
Suspected serial rapist arrested after three decades
Advances in DNA testing led to the arrest of Calvin Dumas, 68. Police said he attacked women in their homes…
Arts Picks
ARTS PICKS | July 26-28
Arts and Culture Editor Matt Shaw couldn’t pick just three Arts Picks this week. His FIVE picks include a new…
News
NIL deals approved for high school athletes
The Florida Board of Education allowed high school athletes to make money through endorsements and other kinds of deals.…
News
New high-rise could become Jacksonville’s tallest building
Cross Regions Group is working with the Downtown Investment Authority on a condo tower next to Riverfront Plaza.…
News
Mixed Fillings Pie Shop is closing in Five Points
Owners said it was “time for a new chapter in our journey.” Preorders can still be placed for July and…
News
Southbank high-rise headed to council
Jacksonville City Council will consider $58.79 million in incentives for The Related Group project.…
News
Prosecutors seek years in prison for former JEA CEO
Aaron Zahn will be sentenced July 30 for conspiracy and wire fraud in a scheme to sell JEA.…
News
#AskJAXTDY | Can a judicial candidate advertise herself as ‘conservative’?
A Jacksonville Today reader wonders why a judicial candidate can advertise as a conservative in a nonpartisan race.…
News
Members sought for first LGBTQ+ Advisory Board
Applications are open until Aug. 9 for the mayor’s inaugural LGBTQ+ Advisory Board…
News
Nathanson a no-show at Duval School Board District 3 candidate forum
Rebecca “Becky Nathanson” and Cindy Person are running to represent District 3 on the Duval County School Board.…
News
Intracoastal West residents face $4,500 annual tax that many say was a surprise
Opponents say what started as a petition to “explore” dredging Hogpen Creek for boating now threatens to price them out…
News
Here are the new rules on kids and social media
The state has published details about how it will carry out a new law aimed at keeping young children off…
The Jaxson
THE JAXSON | 6 Jacksonville expressway names you likely did not know
Here are a few Jacksonville expressways you may not have heard of, despite being one of the thousands who drive…
News
Is it time to discuss razing the Laura Street Trio?
Some City Council members say the option should be considered if it makes more sense than restoring the buildings.…
News
Jacksonville weighs incentives for Rise Doro rebuild
The Mayor’s Budget Review Committee voted Monday to advance legislation for $15.45 million in incentives…
News
St. Augustine residents may get higher tax bills
City commissioners are proposing to leave the tax rate the same, but rising property values would lead to higher taxes.…
News
Jacksonville unveils 12-point plan to battle homelessness
The city’s plan attacks homelessness on multiple fronts and carries out a new state law that bans camping on public…
News
San Jose Boulevard reopens after water main repair
Some lanes were closed July 8 as JEA repaired a water main 25 feet below the road.…
News
Florida has $18.9 million to spend on homeless students
States have until Sept. 30 to use money distributed through the American Rescue Plan.…
News
Wildlight plans 500-home community in Nassau County
Wildlight, a master planned community, will have 24,000 homes when fully built out.…
News
Gate Precast moving its headquarters Downtown
The company, purchased by the Wells Cos., will move to 245 Riverside Ave. in Brooklyn.…
News
Whiskey Cake targets October opening at Town Center
The former Ida Claire restaurant is undergoing extensive renovations for Whiskey Cake Kitchen & Bar.…
News
Danger Will Robinson: Robots rule in sci-fi museum
Collector Ozzie Bilotta has amassed a $7 million assortment of robots, vintage toys and science fiction artifacts.…
News
Voter registration deadline looms for primary election
The deadline to register to vote or change your party affiliation before the Aug. 20 primary election in Florida is…
News
St. Johns rum producer plans restaurant and distillery
The Madi Rum development would be built on 6 acres on State Road 207, west of Interstate 95.…
News
St. Marys Bridge will shut down next week for routine repairs
Traffic will be detoured from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday at the Florida-Georgia border.…
News
UF president suddenly resigns, citing wife’s health
University of Florida President Ben Sasse will leave his job July 31, 17 months after taking the position.…
News
DeSantis’ veto of beach bill roils environmentalists
Supporters said the bill would have protected the health of beachgoers. The Legislature approved the bill unanimously.…
News
Florida Tropical Training Week: Get prepared with the pros
Meteorologists from the National Weather Service will prepare workshop participants for the most active weeks of this hurricane season.…
News
Keiser’s new simulator trains students for police careers
Keiser University in Jacksonville uses a new interactive simulator to put students in active shooter situations or other crises they…
News
Feeding Northeast Florida opens expanded space
The area’s largest food bank says its renovated facility will help meet a growing need for food.…
News
Former shipyard could be redeveloped on Intracoastal
Apartments, a restaurant and a marina are proposed on the land on Atlantic Boulevard.…
News
Long-awaited widening begins on Old Middleburg Road
Residents have been waiting more than two decades for the road to be widened from two lanes to four.…
News
Bringing ’em back: Jags introduce throwback uniforms
In celebration of their 30th anniversary, the Jaguars are introducing “Prowler Throwbacks,” a uniform based on their first year in…
#AskJAXTDY
#AskJAXTDY | Who’s behind mailers in School Board District 3 race?
Political action committees and parties can spend unlimited money to support candidates — even in school board races, which have…
News
Summer at the Cummer returns this week
Summer at the Cummer offers free admission to the museum and gardens with live music, games and art-making activities.…
Arts Picks
ARTS PICKS | July 19-21
Summer at the Cummer, quilts, intelligent theater in San Marco and jazz in Riverside are this week’s Arts Picks.…
News
Neighbors tire of humming generators at Downtown Hyatt
The Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront hotel has been using generators since a fire five months ago.…
News
Affordable housing land misused, report reveals
The city of Jacksonville has given away land to create affordable housing but has not held the recipients accountable, according…
The Jaxson
THE JAXSON | 10 restaurants and bars coming to Downtown Jax
Several new restaurants and bars are in the works for Downtown Jacksonville.…
News
Jacksonville solid waste drivers made over $50,000 in overtime
The Office of Inspector General said it was impossible to determine whether the hours were actually worked.…
News
Permit issued for remodeling of Union Terminal Warehouse
The historic warehouse on Jacksonville’s Eastside will be remodeled into apartments, offices and retail units. …
News
Design approved for Fernandina waterfront park
Fernandina Beach city commissioners have taken the next steps to make the Amelia Waterfront Park a reality. Commissioners on Tuesday…
News
Mayport redevelopment could get boost from city
Jacksonville may provide $154,100 to hire staff and make improvements to drive the project forward.…
News
Former cop pleads guilty to enticing 17-year-old girl
Josue Garriga III was accused of pursuing a relationship with a Clay County girl he had met in church.…
News
Abortion rights supporters allege ‘dirty trick’ on ballot
Supporters of Amendment 4 say a statement on the ballot will mislead voters about the proposed constitutional amendment.…
News
Higher taxes likely for St. Johns County residents
The county plans to keep its tax rate the same, but rising property values mean homeowners would pay more.…
News
Yulee man charged in Jan. 6 Capitol breach
Garth Walton is one of at least seven people from the Jacksonville area charged in connection with the breach of…
News
Suspect dies in custody; he’s the second in six days
Joseph Lawson, 43, was arrested after scuffling with police and firefighters. He died at the hospital.…
News
Olive Garden exploring Glen Kernan Park location
The Olive Garden would be the first built in the area in at least a dozen years.…
News
St. Johns County to pay $6.3M for deputy’s crash
Motorcylist Julia Perez was severely injured when Deputy Brandon Hetzler ran into her while answering his phone.…
News
World of Beer reopens near Southpoint
It is the company’s third try in Jacksonville and the second franchise owner at Butler Boulevard off I-95.…
News
Calling for unity, Deegan unveils $1.95B budget
Mayor Donna Deegan proposed a budget that calls for drawing on financial reserves and reevaluating capital improvement projects.…
News
Lane closures extended on San Jose Boulevard
JEA says it hit a snag as it repairs a broken water main. Two lanes will be closed in each…
News
Wells Fargo name removed from Downtown tower
Wells Fargo decided to end its naming rights as it downsizes its leased space. A helicopter removed the name letter…
News
Police reopen 34-year-old case of skeleton found in woods
Cold case detectives say the man was never identified and there was no evidence of who killed him,.…
News
Berkman II property sold at auction for $5.1 million
A third-party bidder won the vacant property where the Berkman II was imploded in 2022.…
News
FAMU President Larry Robinson is stepping down
After taking a yearlong sabbatical, Robinson plans to return to serving as a professor in FAMU’s School of the Environment…
News
Volunteer researchers unlock secrets of nesting sea turtles
Northeast Florida is about half way through sea turtle nesting season, and volunteers are working hard to keep track of…
News
Fewer guns confiscated at Jacksonville’s airport
The number of guns seized at Jacksonville International Airport has declined by 25% from last year.…
News
Redistricting challenge ends in North Florida
A federal court ruled that the reconfiguration of Congressional District 5 was not racially motivated.…
News
Interest rates chill home sales in Northeast Florida
Sales normally rise in June, but they’re down this year, and there are more homes for sale than anytime since…
News
Caddyshack restaurant isn’t going anywhere
The anchor restaurant at World Golf Village just signed a 10-year lease.…
News
St. Johns County commissioner cleared of meeting violation
A federal judge ruled that Krista Joseph did nothing wrong when, during a meeting, she encouraged people to vote against…
News
Jacksonville mom testifies in lawsuit to restore Medicaid
A class action lawsuit claims Florida does not properly inform people when terminating their Medicaid coverage.…
News
Tropical disturbance brews east of Florida
The disturbance has a low chance of developing, but rain and thunderstorms are likely in the Southeast.…
News
Challenge to Florida pronoun law gets go-ahead
The law requires teachers to use pronouns that align with their sex assigned at birth.…
News
Edward Waters University officially joins NCAA Division ll
The move to the NCAA means stronger competition for student-athletes and more money for the athletics department.…
News
Region remains abnormally dry despite recent rain
JEA and the St. Johns River Water Management District are asking residents to conserve water until regular rainfall returns.…
#AskJAXTDY
#AskJAXTDY l Why prevent stronger local heat protections for workers?
A Jacksonville Today reader says she’s baffled why the governor and legislators want to put workers at risk.…
News
Salvation Army offers rent and utility assistance
The Salvation Army of Northeast Florida is offering rent and utility assistance for low income residents in Duval County.…
News
Aldi is starting to convert Harveys and Winn-Dixie stores
A Harveys supermarket in Edgewood Square will be the first in the area to be converted to the Aldi brand.…
Distribute
Two local islands rated the best in continental US
The Golden Isles in Georgia and Amelia Island topped a survey by Travel + Leisure magazine.…
News
Affordable housing begins leasing at San Marco East
The Lofts at San Marco East is a 172-unit affordable housing complex at Philips Highway and St. Augustine Road. …
News
Big changes in store for Clay County garbage collection
Curbside recycling will end, and residents are getting new garbage cans as FCC Environmental Services takes over collections.…
News
Clay County Sheriff’s Office takes over school police
The move will provide for quicker response in the event of an emergency, Sheriff Michelle Cook says.…
News
Housing Authority awarded $2.3 million for workforce aid
The money from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development will help 330 local families in the workforce.…
News
Downtown Doubletree plans renovation and new name
The hotel on the Southbank will undergo a $14.6 million renovation and will be renamed Hotel Bellamy.…
Arts Picks
ARTS PICKS | July 12-14
Opening weekend for one-act plays in San Marco, pottery making Downtown and local authors reading in Riverside are this week’s…
News
UF kicks out pro-Palestinian protesters after arrests
The university imposed tougher sentences than recommended for protesters arrested in April. Two of them were from Jacksonville.…
The Jaxson
THE JAXSON | 6 major urban core infrastructure projects
Jacksonville’s urban core continues to grow. Here are six major infrastructure projects currently under construction in or near Downtown.…
News
Saharan dust arrives in Florida: The good and the bad
The first dust plume of the year will help suppress hurricanes, but it can irritate people with respiratory problems.…
News
These St. Johns County elections will likely be decided in August
The general election isn’t until November, but a handful of races in St. Johns County will be as good as…
News
Hurricane forecasters ratchet up predictions after Beryl
Experts at Colorado State University now forecast 25 named storms, including 12 hurricanes.…
News
Cultural Council to award $600K to individual artists
The Artist Grant Program was developed in collaboration with Mayor Donna Deegan’s arts and culture transition committee.…
News
St. Johns and Nassau lead state in student testing
The two counties finished first and second in portions of the Florida Assessment of Student Thinking, or FAST.…
News
Artists sought for new entryways to Cathedral Hill
The Cathedral District-Jax, a local nonprofit, is seeking artists to beautify two intersections in Downtown Jacksonville.…
News
UF Health opens new patient tower in North Jacksonville
The expansion includes six floors and 124 patient rooms to help patients recover from acute care.…
News
Voodoo Brewing Co. will open Saturday in San Marco
The brew pub will open in a 99-year-old building formerly occupied by Bohemian Lounge, Indochine and Square One.…
News
DIA chief raises concerns about Downtown committee
CEO Lori Boyer says projects are on hold as the Special Committee on the Future of Downtown considers changes.…
News
Tickets now available for Jaguars training camp
The Jaguars announced 16 open practice dates for fans, including one at EverBank Stadium. Tickets are free, but you must reserve…
News
Florida regulators look to add nuclear power
Nuclear plants generate about 13% of Florida’s electricity, but the state hasn’t had new plants since the 1970s and 1980s.…
News
Cyberattack stymies families seeking funeral arrangements
The Florida Department of Health said ransom thieves hacked a system used to process birth and death certificates.…
#AskJAXTDY
#AskJAXTDY | Are funds still set aside for Confederate monument removal?
A Jacksonville Today reader asks what’s happening with the money set aside for Confederate monument removal…
News
St. Johns County finishes beach restoration early
Crews have been shoring up 9 miles of beach since March to fortify it against future storms.…
News
Live music venue set for shuttered Sun-Ray Cinema
Marathon Live plans to renovate the Five Points space into a venue called FIVE.…
News
Traffic detoured for JEA work near stadium
East Bay Street is closed at A. Philip Randolph Boulevard as JEA installs chilled water mains.…
News
Apartments planned at former St. Augustine Outlets site
Terrassa, a 324-unit apartment community, will be built east of Interstate 95, where St. Augustine Outets was demolished in 2022.…
News
More of Northbank Riverwalk to close as Downtown projects continue
More of the Northbank Riverwalk will close as work progresses on Downtown Jacksonville bulkhead and park projects.…
#AskJAXTDY
#AskJAXTDY l Will Jacksonville’s new morgue have a crematorium?
Will bodies be disposed of at the new medical examiner’s office? a reader wonders.…
News
Screaming Cat Ice Cream and Coffee to open in Riverside this summer
A new ice cream and coffee venture is coming to a Riverside shopping and dining district.…
News
City failed in oversight of grants to Clara White Mission: Inspector General report
The mayor’s office says it’s undertaking a thorough review of processes to improve oversight and accountability in the awarding of…
News
Duval School Board delays vote on student safety policy
A final student safety policy will be ready for review at the September Duval School Board meeting.…
News
Operation Continuing Promise mission departs Mayport for Jamaica, Central America
The U.S. Navy’s USNS Burlington transport ship launched on Wednesday from Naval Station Mayport to bring Operation Continuing Promise, and…
News
2 Jacksonville adult businesses sue state of Florida over employee age limit
The federal lawsuit alleges the new Florida law violates the rights of 18- to-20-year-old adult entertainers.…
News
Suit over Baker County Sheriff’s handling of ICE detainees awaits judge’s ruling
The ACLU claims detainees’ rights are being violated because of lack of access to lawyers and family.…
News
Jacksonville wants to lure HBCU football to renovated ‘Stadium of the Future’
The deal with the Jaguars included a stipulation that Jacksonville would work to bring in an annual football game between…
News
Navy destroyer returns home to Mayport after helping fight Houthi rebels
A crew of about 350 returned to Mayport Tuesday after a nine-month deployment to the Red Sea.…
News
Durkeeville revitalization study a ‘new chapter’ for historic Black community
Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan signed legislation on Monday to invest $200,000 in studying how to redevelop the Durkeeville neighborhood.…
News
MOSH surpasses $40M fundraising goal required for Northbank move
The Museum of Science & History announced on Monday it has surpassed its fundraising goal requirement of $40 million outlined…
News
Plan your July 4th: Jacksonville area events
Fireworks will fly high over many parts of Jacksonville and Northeast Florida on Thursday, the 4th of July.…
News
Former St. Augustine mayor loses law license
Joseph Boles Jr. was a prominent elder law attorney and former eight-year mayor of St. Augustine.…
News
Unintentional entrepreneur helps local business owners succeed
Jacksonville business coach Linda Nottingham retired to the First Coast 25 years ago after selling two companies she co-founded in…
News
Black history museum moves forward in St. Johns County
A state task force voted Friday to submit a report to the governor to create a Black history museum in…
News
Balloon releases will soon be illegal in Florida
The new restriction aims to protect wildlife from discarded balloons. It will match the law on much of the First…
News
DIA backs out of Laura Street Trio negotiations
The developer, Southeast Development Group, wants to work directly with the Jacksonville City Council.…
News
ATP Tour moving headquarters to Atlantic Beach
The governing body of men’s professional tennis is downsizing with a move from Ponte Vedra Beach.…
News
Florida begins testing cows as bird flu spreads to dairy cattle
Experts worry that the virus is mutating and could spread from human to human, creating another pandemic.…
News
La Cocina moving from St. Augustine Beach to downtown
The restaurant closed at Castillo Real Resort Hotel. It will reopen in July at the top of the San Sebastian…
News
DeSantis vetoes contentious vacation rental bill
Gov. Ron DeSantis said the bill would create bureaucratic red tape for local officials.…
News
Jimmy Buffett highway will run through Northeast Florida
Gov. Ron DeSantis has signed a bill designating State Road A1A as Jimmy Buffett Memorial Highway from Key West to…
News
Saharan dust takes over tropics, but 2 systems advance
A storm system labeled Invest 95 is moving into an area conducive for development.…
News
Duval Schools releases new student safety plan
The safety plan is a response to teacher misconduct at Douglas Anderson School of the Arts, but it will apply…
News
Lawmakers question delayed mail at USPS center in Jax
Lawmakers say they receive countless complaints about the Regional Processing and Distribution Center in Jacksonville.…
News
A little Lawrence is on the way
Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence and his wife, Marissa, announced Thursday that they’re expecting a baby.…
News
Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing Park opens in LaVilla
The park honors brothers James Weldon and Rosamond Johnson, who composed the music known as the Black national anthem.…
Arts Picks
ARTS PICKS | June 28-30
Events in Jacksonville Beach, Murray Hill, Downtown Jax and Avondale make this week’s Arts Picks list.…
News
Another roadblock for Laura Street Trio project
The Downtown Investment Authority staff is recommending that the city end negotiations with the developer of the Laura Street Trio.…
The Jaxson
THE JAXSON | 5 historic roads in town
The First Coast is home to some of Florida’s oldest roads and highways. Here is a look behind the development…
News
Eastside residents skeptical of getting money promised in stadium deal
Many residents fear City Council won’t follow through on the Community Benefits Agreement with the Jaguars.…
News
Postmortem for a historic St. Augustine home
One day it was there, and the next day it was gone. City leaders question whether 11 Bridge Street in…
News
UNF begins doctoral program in health administration
The program will emphasize global health leadership and advanced management of health care facilities and institutions.…
News
Extreme heat leads city to open new cooling centers
Jacksonville is opening an expanded number of cooling centers after a third straight day of high heat indexes.…
News
Crosswalk lights blamed for loggerhead’s death
The turtle apparently misread cues to return to the ocean from Anna Maria Island. The Florida Department of Transportation has…
News
Florida’s ‘Freedom Month’ tax breaks start Monday
The tax “holiday” will allow shoppers to avoid paying sales taxes on a wide range of recreational items and activities…
News
City Council OKs $1.4B ‘Stadium of the Future’ deal
The Jacksonville Jaguars’ $1.4 billion Stadium of the Future is a go. In a 14-1 vote, City Council on Tuesday…
News
Here’s what they’re considering for Metropolitan Park
An architectural firm has put together three concepts for the park based on input from the community.…
News
Catastrophic flooding forecast on First Coast in coming years
Hospitals, fire stations, schools and naval bases will flood annually in coming decades as a result of rising sea levels,…
News
Youth soccer clinic planned as UK teams compete in Jax
Two English Premier League clubs — the Wolverhampton Wanderers and West Ham United — will compete in the Statewide Cup…
News
Hooters closes in Orange Park, one of 40 nationwide
Hooters closed many “underperforming” restaurants, but two Hooters remain in Northeast Florida.…
News
New laws start next week — from communism to AI
More than 200 new laws will take effect in Florida’s 2024-2025 fiscal year. Here are a number that will arrive…
News
St. Augustine Commission kills parking rule update
It was not immediately clear why the parking measure was shelved at the last moment. …
News
Controversial ethics changes signed into law
Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a bill that carries new requirements for filing ethics complaints against public officials.…
News
Jacksonville adds cooling stations as summer heat grows
The city is expanding help for people who can’t cope with the extreme heat predicted this year and beyond.…
News
Four Score Golf Tavern plans second location
The venue at The Palms at Gate Parkway will be larger than the one in San Marco Square, with more…
News
DeSantis signs bill allowing homeowners to shoot bears
Starting July 1, people can shoot bears to defend themselves or property. Opponents are considering legal action to halt the…
News
It’s still OK to drive in the left lane; DeSantis vetoed changes
Gov. Ron DeSantis said a bill approved by the Legislature was too broad and could lead to more traffic congestion.…
News
Jacksonville police officer accused of DUI
Todd Chupp was found slumped over the steering wheel of a truck. He is the 12th Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office employee…
News
Unemployment falls across Northeast Florida
The jobless rate fell in every county in Northeast Florida in May. Education and health services gained the most jobs…
News
Florida is deadliest state for lightning. How to stay safe.
This week is Lightning Safety Awareness Week, and the message is: “When thunder roars, stay indoors.”…
News
St. Johns County explores North Beach seawall
The surge from flooding is getting higher in the North Beach and Vilano Beach community, and a seawall may be…
News
JEA widens hunt for lead water pipes
JEA is carrying out new federal guidelines to eradicate lead contamination that could cause serious health problems.…
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Huguenot Park reopens after road was washed out
The road was rebuilt Saturday, and beachgoers flocked to the sandy stretches Sunday.…
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Arlington office buildings could become apartments
A developer wants to transform the former FBI headquarters, two office buildings and neighboring property in Arlington into 779 apartments.…
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Florida turns down federal subsidy to feed poor children
Nonprofits say the federal aid could have decreased food insecurity during the summer, when children no longer have easy access…
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Swisher marks 100 years of operation in Jacksonville
The tocacco company recognized its 100th anniversary with a mural by Jacksonville artist Martin Torres.…
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Justices say peaceful protests are OK under riot law
Siding with the state and the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, the Florida Supreme Court rejected arguments that the law is ambiguous.…
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Tropical disturbance inches toward Northeast Florida
The system has a medium chance of becoming a tropical system. Expect rainfall totals of around 2 inches and gusty…
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City Council slices community benefits from stadium deal
Separately, Jacksonville Jaguars owner Shad Khan is considering land near Metropolitan Park for an “entertainment center.”…
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St. Johns County judge reprimanded over election post
The Florida Supreme Court reprimanded Judge Casey Woolsey for a social media post, but the court found no error for…
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Residents sue to stop morgue: ‘Brentwood’s not a cemetery!’
The Metro Gardens Neighborhood Association has filed suit against the city to halt construction of a medical examiner’s office in…
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Jacksonville police union reaches contract agreement
Police officers would receive a 13% salary increase in fiscal 2024-2025. Corrections officers would get 15%.…
Arts Picks
ARTS PICKS | June 21-23
The Soul Violinist, a local photography exhibit on our Beaches, and free Saturday at MOCA are this weekend’s Arts Picks.…
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Permit issued for Cooper’s Hawk in Mandarin
Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant will have inside and patio dining, bars and a retail area.…