Reviving Jacksonville’s Past: The Expertly Reimagined Union Terminal Warehouse

The historic Union Terminal Warehouse, a 112-year-old landmark in Jacksonville, has been reborn as a mixed-use facility that blends residential living with business opportunities. This transformation, led by Columbia Ventures with WPC as the general contractor, is a testament to the power of collaboration and community investment.

A New Life for a Historic Treasure

Originally completed in 1913, the 330,000-square-foot Union Terminal Warehouse was once Florida’s largest industrial building. Today, it offers 228 residential units and commercial spaces, including local businesses like Vantage Point Coffee Co., thanks to a meticulous preservation effort that balances history with modern functionality.

Key restoration highlights include:

Preserving Architectural Integrity: The project retained key historical features, such as the warehouse’s original window designs and iconic water tower.
Sustainable Development: Extensive remediation efforts, including asbestos and lead removal, ensure the structure’s safety and longevity.
A Community-Driven Vision: Portions of the housing are reserved for individuals earning 80% of the area median income, supporting workforce housing initiatives.

A Grand Opening Celebrating Community Investment

In early March, the city of Jacksonville, alongside community leaders, investors, and residents, gathered to celebrate the grand opening of Union Terminal Warehouse. The event highlighted the importance of repurposing historic spaces to meet modern needs while maintaining their cultural and architectural significance.

Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan praised the project’s role in revitalizing the Eastside community: “As Jacksonville continues to embark on transformative projects like this very one, it is critical that neighborhoods like the Eastside are no longer left behind. This area’s history is deeply woven into the fabric of Jacksonville, and this project is just the latest example of how history can be thoughtfully preserved and repurposed for future generations.”

Columbia Ventures Development Manager Ryan Akin also emphasized the collaborative efforts that made the project possible, stating, “These deals don’t get financed without great partners.” He credited city programs like the Downtown Preservation and Revitalization Program, which provided $8.3 million in loans to support the project.

A Model for Future Urban Redevelopment

The reopening of Union Terminal Warehouse is not just a victory for historic preservation—it’s a beacon for future revitalization projects across Jacksonville. The building now serves as a dynamic hub, offering spaces for businesses and residents while maintaining affordability and accessibility.

As Jacksonville grows, Union Terminal Warehouse stands as a shining example of how thoughtful redevelopment can bring new life to historic buildings while strengthening the communities they serve. Through this effort, WPC and Columbia Ventures have demonstrated the power of collaboration in shaping a more inclusive and vibrant cityscape.

In The News

Jacksonville Union Terminal Warehouse - Jax Today

Jacksonville's Union Terminal Warehouse re-opens on the Eastside as mixed-use space - First Coast News

Community celebrates ‘substantial investment’ in Union Terminal Warehouse Action News Jacksonville

Union Terminal Warehouse reopens as mixed-use development after $72 million renovation - News4 Jacksonville

Historic Renovation - more than 360,000-square-foot-building - Jacksonville Daily Record