Gateway Jax Proposes Eight-Story Parking Garage in Downtown Jacksonville

Gateway Jax has announced plans to build an eight-story parking facility in Downtown Jacksonville, directly west of the historic Ambassador Hotel. The structure, made of precast concrete, will provide approximately 480 parking spaces intended to serve hotel guests, surrounding Pearl Square properties, the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department, and the general public.

The proposed garage is part of a broader redevelopment effort by Gateway Jax, which includes revitalizing the long-vacant Ambassador Hotel, a six-story building dating back to the 1920s. Gateway acquired the hotel, along with the neighboring Central National Bank building and the remainder of the block bordered by Duval, Julia, Church, and Pearl streets, in early 2025.

Design plans submitted to the Downtown Development Review Board (DDRB) highlight a modern facade, with metal and louvered panels on the north and west sides. A mural is planned for the south wall, while the east-facing wall adjacent to the hotel will remain plain.

Landscaping features include preserved existing trees and new plantings along Pearl Street and the garage's north side. Concrete and brick pavers in four color tones will enhance the pedestrian areas, complemented by twelve different plant species.

The garage proposal modifies a previously approved plan for the Ambassador Hotel and will go before the DDRB for final review on June 26 at City Hall. City planning staff has recommended approval, with suggestions for Gateway Jax to coordinate with the board on design standards and street furniture placement.

Gateway Jax is a collaboration involving Bryan Moll, JWB Real Estate Capital, and DLP Capital. The group acquired the full block on February 14, 2025, for $17 million, backed by a $16.68 million mortgage.

This parking garage is one piece of a much larger redevelopment initiative. Gateway Jax has already started work on nearby Block N11, a $45 million mixed-use development at 515 N. Pearl Street, and on 425 Beaver Street, a $110 million project with residential, retail, and parking space. Altogether, Pearl Square includes nine properties and represents a $750 million investment, contributing to a broader $2 billion vision for Downtown Jacksonville.