by David Chapman
Staff Writer
For one San Marco development and a Downtown business, the response from the members of the Downtown Design Review Board of the Jacksonville Economic Development Commission was positive and means the two can take their next respective steps toward success.
Mike Kleinschmidt of Design Cooperative LLC requested a conceptual review and gave DDRB members an overview of a three-story development, Americana Restaurant and Office, that will include a restaurant and office space at the northeast corner of Hendricks Avenue and Louisa Street. The plans call for a 26,000-square-foot building with the first floor consisting of an 8,000-square foot eatery with the second and third floors dedicated to office space.
Parking is still an issue for the development, as the conceptual plan does not provide enough parking spaces for the operation. The site is near the Skyway and street and garage parking but concerns over the issue resulted in a recommendation from DDRB staff to the board that the developer be required to provide a parking plan in order to receive final approval for the development.
The proposal also outlined a “valet pull off lane” on Louisa Street that will require cooperation from several agencies before it would be approved in the final review.
“Absolutely,” said Kleinschmidt, when asked if he was pleased with the process and outcome thus far. “We know there are some concerns and we’re working on a few things, but it will all be done before the final review.”
DDRB also approved a Minimum Distance Waiver for a Downtown business that will reduce the required minimum distance between a liquor license location and church or school from 1500 feet to 75 feet.
Adrian Plummer, owner of Poppy Love Smoke at 112 East Adams St., sought the waiver to allow his cigar lounge and wine shop to serve beer and wine.
Plummer gave the board members a description of his business and work he has put into the building, while DDRB staff liaison Jim Klement provided a map of Downtown establishments with similar licenses and waivers and the area they encompass.
Business has been sufficient, said Plumer when asked by the board, but being granted such a waiver would generate much more business.
The board approved the waiver request, with one member noting past instances where other waivers were granted.
“We’ve established a precedent to encourage these types of businesses Downtown,” said Andy Sikes.
Much like Kleinschmidt, the board’s decision on his request pleased Plummer, who said he was looking forward to seeing the increase in traffic.
“I love the area and the city,” said Plummer. “Poppy Love Smoke loves the city, too.”
The next DDRB meeting is scheduled for June 25 at 2 p.m. in the JEDC board room at the Police and Fire Pension Fund Building on Adams Street.
356-2466