In a remarkable development for Jacksonville’s sports scene, the Jacksonville Armada has acquired nearly 6 acres of land downtown for just $1, setting the stage for a new soccer-specific stadium.
The Jacksonville Armada, aiming to provide a new and enhanced experience for fans, will relocate from Hodges Stadium at the University of North Florida to a newly planned stadium downtown. The site, located just north of VyStar Ballpark, currently consists of vacant lots but is slated for transformation into a dedicated soccer venue.
The project’s initial phase is estimated to cost $11 million, according to the Jacksonville Daily Record. The team’s agreement with the City of Jacksonville to purchase the land, completed on December 20, underscores the strategic importance of the new location for both the team and the city.
Positioned along Van Buren, Albert, Grant and Georgia streets as well as A. Philip Randolph Boulevard, the land will host a stadium with a capacity of at least 2,500 seats. The deal also establishes crucial construction milestones, such as a completion deadline set for September 2026. Construction is set to commence by the end of January.
The Mayor’s office expressed enthusiasm over the deal, stating that professional sports not only bolster the local economy but also enhance city pride and community spirit. The new stadium is seen as a key addition to the array of development projects aimed at revitalizing Jacksonville’s downtown area. “Professional sports teams grow our local economy, contribute to our city pride, and bring our community together,” said a representative from the mayor’s office. This sentiment reflects a broader vision for a bustling and vibrant downtown.
Attempts to reach the Armada for further comments on the transaction have so far been unsuccessful. However, the public remains eagerly anticipating this development as a significant boost to the local sports infrastructure.
The Jacksonville Armada’s acquisition of downtown land is a landmark deal, poised to contribute significantly to the city’s landscape and sports culture. With construction deadlines in place, the community looks forward to seeing the fruition of this ambitious project.
Source: News4jax
