LABS Initiative

Lively and Beautiful Sidewalks (LABS) Fund

LABS Initiative For Lively And Beautiful Sidewalks in DTjax

Created in 2017, the LABS Initiative strives to identify, develop, and implement placemaking best practices that enhance the vibrancy of Downtown Jacksonville.

Guided by an advisory committee and utilizing funds we raise philanthropically, LABS invests in projects that create walkable connectivity, activate the streetscape, enhance public spaces, and engage the community. More succinctly, our goal is to create “moments” throughout Downtown.

Existing Projects

Adams Street Parklet

Funded by proceeds from our inaugural gala, in 2017, we built Downtown’s first parklet—a small public park space in what was formerly on-street parking—in front of our neighboring coffee shop, The Brick Coffee House. We continue to fund public access to the space, manage movable seating and maintain planter boxes to create an inviting spot for passersby to relax, eat and enjoy the outdoors.

Lights on Laura

For the last three years, Downtown Vision has implemented a progressively growing program to dress Downtown up for the holidays! As of 2019, more than 80,000 LED lights have been installed on the trees along Laura Street and assorted side streets. This installation, combined with more than 90 LED-light holiday garland wraps installed on Downtown’s historic lampposts, created a warm and welcoming holiday atmosphere during the winter months on one of Downtown’s most walkable strips.

Activating The Corkscrew

In 2018, the City of Jacksonville’s Parks and Recreation Department created Downtown’s first public gym on the Northbank Riverwalk under the Acosta Bridge by adding sculptural workout equipment, astroturf and landscaping. To activate the space, our Downtown Ambassadors staff The Corkscrew five days a week, partnering with the City on needed maintenance and repairs, providing Safety, Hospitality and Cleaning services, and managing moveable seating and work out equipment such as yoga mats, jump ropes, dumbbells, to make it a destination for people exercising on the Riverwalk.

The Patio on Hogan

Added in the fall of 2019, The Patio on Hogan is a project that activated an otherwise empty stretch of sidewalk near the intersection of Hogan and Monroe Streets. By adding cafe tables and seating, along with a set of adirondack chairs, the space is now utilized by customers of the many surrounding restaurants and shops for meetings, enjoying lunch and working outside. Each afternoon the furniture is removed and safely stored to ensure a longer lifespan and quality.   

The Oasis at Art Walk

First implemented in June of 2019, The Oasis at Art Walk creates a family friendly lounge and play space in James Weldon Johnson Park. Relax under the trees in colorful hammocks and bean bag lounge chairs on brightly colored astroturf. Kids can enjoy an anti-microbial ball pit. Available for enjoyment during the warmer months so that visitors can enjoy summer vibes during Art Walk.

Support Labs

Our No. 1 source for LABS funds comes from our annual #DTJax Gala each spring. Our 6th Annual #DTJax Gala will return February 2022.

For more information contact Kady Yellow, Senior Director of Placemaking