* by Monica Chamness
Staff Writer
Without fanfare, and following months of unexpected construction delays, Berkman Plaza finally has its first tenants.
Residents began moving into the 22-story tower last month. There are 206 apartments and eight penthouses, six of which have been leased. Officials declined to say how many apartments have been leased.
Originally slated to have its topping off in September, the ceremony was postponed because of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. The completion date was pushed to the end of 2001, but construction continues.
“It’s taken us much longer than we anticipated because of the attention to detail,” said Leasing Manager John Comita.
Two of the main on-site retail spaces in Berkman are in the initial phases of construction. Portabella’s, an upscale gourmet market, will feature grocery items downstairs and prepared food, a wine bar and a jazz trio upstairs. Darryl Powers Day Spa will be located on the ground floor, offering hair treatments, pedicures and massages.
An upscale restaurant on the waterfront is being negotiated and Comita said one potential candidate is Matthew’s.
All remaining construction is expected to be complete by June.
Prices for apartment rentals range from $835 for a one bedroom overlooking the city to $2,775 for a 1,800 square-foot three bedroom unit overlooking the river. Penthouses are substantially more expensive.
Features include a heated swimming pool with an interesting design. Instead of having a shallow end and a deep end, the oval shape gradually dips deeper by width, not length. A cabana room with tile floors is located near the pool for lounging or private parties. Jutting out from the 20 townhouses, which are part of the property, is a private marina, which can accommodate boats up to 60 feet. The docks for the marina are still being built. A water taxi linking Berkman to the Southbank will also be available.
Each resident will be assigned a key fob to allow entry to the controlled-access building, the lobby, their rooms and pretty much everywhere else.
Comita said the lobby has imported wool carpet from England and capped-off fire sprinklers, which pop down in case of emergency.
“We tried not to make it look too institutional,” said Comita.
Comita said amenities such as a stately library with gas-burning fireplace, plush leather furniture and scores of classic and best-selling novels reaching to the ceiling are little touches that Berkman Plaza officials hope will draw residents to the complex.
Prestige Cleaners of Jacksonville will operate a dry cleaning and laundry business in the building.
Two board rooms are open to residents for business purposes at no cost. One is equipped with high-tech audiovisuals. The raised ceilings, rich decor and myriad of windows throughout the common areas create an opulent appearance.
Add to that the music room across from the complimentary 24-hour concierge desk, which will be home to a baby grand piano.
Other perks include a fitness room, squash courts, tennis courts, walnut cabinetry in each unit and eight inches of concrete between floors for soundproofing.
Valet service for residents is being considered, but there’s no decision yet.
Phase two will consist of another tower of apartments and seven more townhomes.