The History

Just steps away from the Springfield Historic District, there is an important history in the Phoenix community. After the Great Fire of 1901 burned most of Downtown Jacksonville, businesses began moving just 2 miles north. Telfair Stockton & Company began developing the Springfield Warehouse District in the Phoenix neighborhood in the 1920’s where it has housed everything from door and car manufacturers to bottling companies. This area, aptly named after the mythological bird who cyclically rises from the ashes to be reborn, is now home to the Phoenix Arts & Innovation District (PHX JAX) with a goal of regenerating the neighborhood to rise once again.

The Original

In 2016, Jacksonville artist, entrepreneur and cultural instigator, Christy Frazier, founded the original “Phoenix Arts District” in 2016 with plans to convert a set of warehouses into a state of the art school for artists to continue training, refine their crafts and provide studio space. She had the vision for rehabilitating these properties and truly laid the foundation for this artist area to grow.

The visionary

Christy’s vision was the start of something special. With a footprint that now spans over eight acres, PHX JAX will be co-created with a community of creatives and residents. The goal is to reinvigorate artistic livelihoods and economies, and grow business opportunities for local companies. The PHX JAX District will offer an urban center - of co-working space, artist studios and retail spaces to incubate small businesses. Throughout the property, the community campus will be converted into pocket parks, studios, housing, offices and apartments, food and beverage, event spaces, galleries, and more!

The EnvironmenT

Together with the Groundwork Jacksonville, PHX JAX will be creating a walkable and bikeable district, with the Emerald Trail running through the property. In addition to the original trail, Future of Cities has committed to giving back 40% greenspace in the form of additional trails and pocket parks throughout the 8+ acre footprint.

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Co-Create with us

The Phoenix Arts and Innovation District (PHXJAX), hosts regular community meetings, providing a platform for neighbors to actively participate in co-creating the district. These meetings serve as opportunities for residents to share their insights, voice concerns, and contribute to decision-making processes. By engaging with the community in such a meaningful way, PHXJAX ensures that development efforts are responsive to local needs and preferences, ultimately fostering a more inclusive and sustainable neighborhood transformation. Withintrification stands in stark contrast to traditional Gentrification by prioritizing community agency and local empowerment in the revitalization process. Unlike gentrification, where external forces often dictate changes, withintrification empowers existing residents to take the lead, ensuring that development aligns with their needs and aspirations. Co-create with us.

Co-Create with us

Located in Jacksonville, FL

Just 2 miles north of Downtown Jacksonville, PHX is worth the adventure to get there. Just bring yourself—we’ll handle the rest.

The Future of Cities

Fast forward to today, Future of Cities is now at the helm of regenerative development. Founded by real estate artist and visionary, Tony Cho and a group of investors with a passion for regenerative development, Future of Cities will build up the PHX Arts & Innovation District and surrounding community to create affordable housing and business opportunities, provide infrastructure for sustainable food options, and build quality of life, wellness, culture, and collective transformation.