Florida Construction News staff writer
Construction has been approved for a new fairgrounds site on the city’s Westside, featuring an expo hall, office space, and an amphitheater. The ambitious project, estimated to cost approximately $17 million, aims to transform the area along Normandy Boulevard, located east of the Jacksonville Equestrian Center, by June 2025.
The plans include an expansive 80,000-sq. ft. facility designed to host various events and provide office accommodations. According to the Daily Record, city crews have already cleared the land, and further preparations will involve grading the property and upgrading infrastructure, roadways, and parking facilities. The project will also include up to 32 RV spaces equipped with water, sewer, and electrical hookups.
In addition to the expo hall, the city has committed to constructing an amphitheater with an extended seating area, enhancing the venue’s capacity for shows and events.
The Jacksonville City Council initially approved the redevelopment plan and a lease agreement with the Duval County Fair Association in April 2023. This followed the agreement between Jaguars’ owner Shad Khan’s Iguana Investments Florida LLC to acquire the existing fairgrounds property downtown.
A revised agreement reached in May established a 30-year lease for the new site to the fair association, with options for two additional 10-year renewals, signaling a long-term commitment to revitalizing the fairgrounds and providing new opportunities for community events.
The fair is expected to move to the new site next fall.
