In its heyday, Downtown was Northeast Florida's retail hub. With department stores and specialty stores on every block, Downtown was the "town center" for the community.
Over the years, Downtown's retail population has decreased. In an effort to bring more attention to the diverse and distinctive nature of Downtown retail in the 21st century, a group of business owners and managers met Monday and established a merchant's association.
"We're planning to have weekly meetings for about a month to get the organization going. After that, we'll communicate through email and social media. We've all got cellphones and computers and Facebook," said Jennifer O'Donnell, manager of Chamblin's Uptown Café and Bookstore.
In addition to O'Donnell, founding members are Jay Harris, owner of Strght & Nrrw Clothing Boutique, Ida Metzger and Daniel Day, owners of Diversions Relaxation & Gifts, and artist Sharla Valeski, who previously owned The Next Gallery along Laura Street and now has her studio at CoRK.
"We want Downtown businesses to thrive. Everybody has their niche and we can work together," O'Donnell said.
"I think this is a chance to build recognition for Downtown. It offers an experience not found anywhere else in the city. We all have our social pockets. This is a way to bring us all together," said Harris.
In addition to rallying Downtown businesses, the group wants to work with JAX Chamber, the City and Downtown Vision Inc. to pool resources and promote the businesses in the neighborhood.
"For as long as DVI has been in operation, there could be some more imagination. We need to stop waiting and make this happen," said Harris.
"We're ready to see some action," said Day.
Before the first meeting adjourned, the group launched a Facebook page, Jax Pack Downtown Merchants, and a Twitter handle, @JaxPackDT.
Metzger said the Facebook page is a way for retailers to feature new products and promote events. Publishing a weekly list of weekend activities also is on the agenda.
Membership in the new group is open to all Downtown merchants who wish to participate.
"Go to the Facebook page, like us and message us," O'Donnell said.
The group is scheduled to meet again at 9 a.m. Monday at Chamblin's Uptown.
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