New Grocery Store Coming to Downtown Jacksonville

A New Era for Downtown Jacksonville

Jacksonville is on the verge of a major transformation with the arrival of its first downtown Publix store. This development marks a significant milestone for the $2 billion Pearl Square redevelopment project, led by Gateway Jax. The announcement highlights the growing excitement around revitalizing the urban core and improving access to fresh food in the city's heart.

The new Publix location will be situated at 119 W. Beaver St., between Hogan and Laura streets. It will occupy a 31,000-square-foot space within a building that also includes a 15-story residential tower with 250 apartments and a 400-space parking garage. Construction is set to begin in summer 2026, signaling the start of an ambitious phase of development.

The first portion of the Pearl Square project will include 1,250 residences, 150 hotel rooms, and approximately an acre of outdoor space. Construction has already begun on the first two buildings, with more expected to break ground later this year and in 2026. The first building, located at the intersection of Pearl, Julia, Ashley, and Church streets, started in October.

Enhancing Community Life

“For 95 years, Publix has provided premier service and quality products in a welcoming store environment,” said Hannah Herring, Publix media relations manager, in a news release. “We are excited to continue that legacy as part of the Pearl Square neighborhood.”

This new store will be the first full-service grocery store in downtown Jacksonville in over a decade, addressing a long-standing need for accessible shopping options. Many residents have had to travel to other neighborhoods for groceries, relying on small convenience stores or delivery services for essentials.

“A grocery store is the heartbeat of any neighborhood,” said Gateway Jax CEO Bryan Moll in the news release. “The addition of Publix, already well-known and loved, is a game-changer for Downtown and an incredible step forward for Pearl Square. It brings everyday convenience and reinforces our commitment to building a complete, connected community that reflects the energy of Jacksonville.”

Expanding the Vision

Pearl Square is the centerpiece of Gateway Jax’s long-term effort to transform several underutilized blocks into a dense, walkable community. The project is backed by JWB Real Estate Capital and DLP Capital and includes renovations to the Ambassador Hotel and new public green spaces.

“In 2020, when JWB started assembling the land that would eventually become Pearl Square, it was seen by many as a pipe dream,” said Alex Sifakis, president of JWB, in the news release. “What [Gateway Jax has] already been able to accomplish in just a few years has been absolutely incredible.”

Don Wenner, founder and CEO of DLP Capital, added that Publix’s commitment underscores the momentum behind the project. “The addition of Publix to Pearl Square is more than a milestone; it’s a testament to the vision, leadership, and momentum Gateway Jax is driving in Downtown Jacksonville,” he said.

Creating a Vibrant Neighborhood

Once completed, the neighborhood will feature widened sidewalks, shaded parks, and a “festival street” designed for outdoor dining and community gatherings. Developers say the addition of Publix cements Pearl Square’s role in reshaping Jacksonville’s downtown into a place to “live, work, shop and explore.”

“It speaks volumes about this development — and about Gateway Jax as a whole — when a brand like Publix commits to being part of the transformation,” said Matthew Clark, senior vice president of Colliers Urban Division, which represents Gateway Jax in retail leasing.

This new Publix store is more than just a grocery store; it's a symbol of growth, opportunity, and community spirit. As the project progresses, it promises to bring new life and vitality to the heart of Jacksonville.