Travelers through Jacksonville International Airport soon can access a new club — The Club JAX.
Club JAX is designed with zones labeled relax, replenish, productivity and kids, along with a concierge and a bar. It will be between the food court and service pet relief area after travelers clear security.
Jacksonville Aviation Authority spokeswoman Debbie Jones said the lounge should open in the spring and will be available to all departing passengers, regardless of airline, through either a $40 day pass bought online or at the club or with a Priority Pass membership that comes with several travel credit cards.
In addition to Priority Pass, The Club JAX can be accessed by members of LoungeKey, Diners Club International and the AAA member discount program.
JAA Senior Properties Administrator Jeff Taylor said Friday the airport lounge offers a complimentary hot and cold buffet that features a seasonal menu rotation that showcases the flavors of Jacksonville.
The lounge also offers premium wines, local craft beers, premium spirits and cocktails, all of which are complimentary with guest access to those over 21 years old, he said.
The city is reviewing a permit for Auld & White Constructors LLC to build-out the 3,625-square-foot space that will become a premium lounge for travelers in addition to storage and pantry space.
The Jacksonville Aviation Authority previously announced that Airport Lounge Development Corp., based in Plano, Texas, will invest at least $1 million to develop, manage and operate the 2,726-square-foot facility that will have seating for 49 guests.
The authority said The Club JAX will offer a hot and cold buffet featuring menus from Jacksonville chefs and seating for relaxation, privacy, productivity and dining.
It said the club will provide two restrooms, including showers, and a children’s play area with age-appropriate video games, TV and books.
The authority said Airport Lounge Development is the largest U.S. independent shared-use lounge developer with a network of 18 airport lounges among 13 airports worldwide. It is part of The Collinson Group, a privately held travel services company based in the U.K.
The Collinson Group’s services include travel insurance, travel clubs and loyalty programs. It says it spans 24 international offices and 21 brands, including Priority Pass.
In October, Airport Lounge Development announced the opening of a new lounge at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport.
The Club DFW is open from 4 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. daily and serves all passengers who have cleared TSA access in any terminal.
As in Jacksonville, guests there can buy a day pass for $40. It serves the same membership categories.
It described that club’s five zones as:
• A Privacy Zone, where guests can conduct private conference calls or Skype friends or family in the privacy room or in one of ALD’s privacy chairs. “Cocoon” chairs are provided for those who want to read or make a quiet phone call.
• A Replenish Zone that features comfortable seating and a menu that includes a hot and cold buffet and all-day snack items. There is a fully stocked and tended bar.
• A Productivity Zone with a desk-height counter with electrical outlets, as well as ergonomic chairs for business travelers seeking a workspace. Guests can use the available computer and printer or use their own computers.
• A Relax Zone with seating that enables guests to catch up on the news or socialize with fellow travelers.
• A Refresh Zone that includes a restroom, private shower facility and spa-quality soaps and lotions.
