Cathedral District Jacksonville (CDJ) is excited to announce a major step forward in the revitalization of Downtown’s Cathedral Hill District through a new partnership with Housing Trust Group, LLC (HTG), one of the nation’s leading affordable housing developers. Under a proposal unveiled earlier this month, CDJ and HTG will collaborate to develop an 85-unit, mixed-income apartment community at 216, 222, and 228 E. Duval Street.

The Downtown Investment Authority (DIA) has recommended the transfer of three city-owned parcels to support this transformational project. The development, valued at $36.5 million, will feature thoughtfully designed one- and two-bedroom apartments, with 75 units reserved for households earning at or below 80% of the area median income, and 10 units offered at market rate.

Designed by Jacksonville-based PQH Group Design and managed by HTG Management LLC, the community will offer robust amenities, including a 1,400-square-foot entrance lobby, an 8,295-square-foot indoor amenity space featuring a lounge, business center, library, fitness center, and pool lounge, as well as a 6,755-square-foot outdoor area with a swimming pool, barbecue area, and gathering spaces. Additionally, plans include 1,200 square feet of ground-floor retail and commercial space, and structured parking across the first two levels.

“This partnership marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to revitalize the Cathedral District,” said Ginny Myrick, President and CEO of Cathedral District Jacksonville. “We are proud to bring a high-quality, mixed-income housing option that not only supports Downtown growth but also remains deeply committed to affordability and community access.”

The DIA estimates that the project will generate more than $3 million in property taxes over the next 20 years. Construction is expected to commence within 12 months following the finalization of a redevelopment agreement, with substantial completion anticipated within 24 months of groundbreaking.

The development partnership plans to pursue state tax credit financing for affordable housing and will apply for an Affordable Housing Support Loan from the DIA in May 2025.

Cathedral District Jacksonville, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, has been leading revitalization efforts within the historic Cathedral Hill District, bordered by State, Adams, Main, and Liberty streets. CDJ previously partnered with Vestcor to successfully deliver the 120-unit Lofts at Cathedral apartment community and continues to focus on strategic development that enhances the neighborhood’s historic, cultural, and civic assets.

The proposal, outlined in DIA Resolution 2025-04-13, was considered and approved unanimously by the DIA Retail Enhancement and Property Disposition Committee during its meeting on April 10.