Closing Time in Downtown Jacksonville May Be Extended
Last call might be getting a makeover, at least in one key part of Duval County. A new proposal from Councilmember Raul Arias suggests extending hours for Downtown Jacksonville bars and restaurants until 3 a.m. The proposed ordinance that would create a new “Downtown Entertainment District” and allow bars and restaurants therein to keep the party going an hour later.
This change would be welcomed in the corridor, which has seen millions of dollars worth of public and private investments over the past several years. Downtown Jacksonville’s reputation has not quite caught up to its reality, something that local operators have been seeking to change. The proposal asserts that it will help insure the “dominance” of the area as the Jacksonville’s entertainment center. It also seeks to balance the public safety and nuisance consdierations by concentrating the city’s latest nights into the District.
Approximately 63 restaurants and bars stand to benefit from the change, if it is ultimately approved. As always, the firm will monitor its progress. The full proposal is below.
