JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — A major hotel development took a big step towards becoming a reality.
Renderings for the Four Seasons Hotel that Jacksonville Jaguars owner Shad Khan hopes to build were released by the Downtown Development Review Board.
The project is expected to cost more than $300 million and local businesses near the proposed site of the hotel are in favor of the development.
The renderings of the proposed Four Seasons show a very impressive structure along the St Johns River. According to building plans, the hotel would be on the opposite side of Gator Bowl Boulevard from Lot J.
That piece of land was used by the city of Jacksonville as part of its World of Nations celebration back in February. If the Four Seasons plan is approved by a vote next Thursday, then that piece of land becomes a construction site.
Renderings
On the other side of TIAA Bank Field from the proposed hotel location, it's a typical lunch crowd at Russ Doe's Sandwich Shop. Jesse Culbreth is an interior commercial contractor and is in favor of a Four Seasons coming to this part of downtown.
"We're excited about all the investment that Shad and the Jags are bringing to the area," says Culbreth, co-owner of Emerald C's Development. "The Four Seasons is a big step in the right direction, not only allowing for possible Super Bowl opportunities, College Football Playoff opportunities, and it starts expansion for full development around the stadium area."
Across the street from Culbreth's business is the Touchdown Grill of Jax. Owners of this restaurant are thrilled with the possibility of more foot traffic.
"I think it would be beneficial for the area, not only for our business but other small businesses," says Touchdown Grill of Jax co-owner Brendan Fitzgerald, "construction and post construction element, constant tourism being here, it would generate a lot more business for us."
"With all of the organizations in Jacksonville right now that are focused on development and the betterment of downtown I think it's going to be incredible and we're excited to see it," adds Culbreth.
"I think it'll mean we're probably going to change things up in the restaurant," says Touchdown Grill of Jax co-owner Jasson Romero Rosales, "probably opening a little later to catch that foot traffic. I think it could positively impact the area."
A meeting for final approval of the Four Seasons by the city's Review Board is set for Thursday May 12th.
RELATED: Jacksonville Fire Museum on the move