JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The City of Jacksonville is spending thousands of dollars to revitalize one of the oldest African American communities in our city. But, before the city spends the money, they are asking the community for input in a study titled the 'Miracle on Myrtle.'
On Monday, city leaders officially dedicated $200,000 to the 'Miracle on Myrtle' study during a signing at the Mt. Olive Primitive Baptist Church.
“A lot of us have forgotten where we came from and how we got here," said Llyod Washington, the president of the Durkeeville Historical Society.
Washington has worked for decades to preserve the history of the Durkeeville neighborhood. He was one of the key players in establishing a museum at JP Small Park where visitors can learn about the Red Caps and other Negro League teams.
“We had several local ball players who were members of the Negro League, Arc Hamilton and Buster Hair," Washington said.
Historically Durkeeville was home to African Americans who couldn’t find houses elsewhere in the city.
The rich history of the area is something city leaders believe has been lost over the years.
“The Miracle on Myrtle study will develop a plan for guiding the revitalization of an economically challenged, traditionally red-lined section of the city’s urban core," said Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan. “This is a critical investment into one of the oldest Black communities of our city."
Two hundred thousand dollars has been set aside to revitalize and develop the area, with a focus on commercial development and affordable housing while also finding ways to protect the neighborhood's vibrant history.
Jacksonville City Council approved the funds back in April. The study area includes Myrtle Avenue, Kings Road and the S-Line Urban Greenway.
Jimmy Peluso, the councilman representing the district, says the neighborhood has over 30 vacant lots owned by Jacksonville Housing Authority, and finding opportunities to turn those lots into affordable housing will be a part of the study.
"This study gives us a chance to work with the housing authority to ensure those lots are used to benefit the community," Peluso said.
Leaders estimate that 5,000 residents will benefit from this study and the community will get a say in how the $200,000 is spent through public meetings and a community committee.
“Come ready to address your concerns, come ready to map out solutions, come ready to speak to your needs, your desires and the things that you want your community to look like," said Tanisha Hill, the community engagement specialist for the project.
Project leaders believe it will take about a year to finalize a plan, and hope to implement it in 2025.