Greater Jacksonville Relocation Guide
Welcome to the Greater Jacksonville area! EXIT Real Estate Gallery would like to welcome you to the Greater Jacksonville area with the gift of our Relocation Guide. This guide is a wellspring of information about the Jacksonville area and a resource for your relocation needs. We are proud to call this area home and are looking forward to sharing our wonderful city with you. The Greater Jacksonville area is well known for its beauty. From its rural countryside to its downtown skyline and gorgeous beaches, there is much to love and discover about this area. Jacksonville’s many accolades include No. 1 on WalletHub’s “Best Cities to Start a Business” list in 2014; No. 1 on Parenting magazine’s “Best Cities for Recreation” list in 2010; No. 5 on Forbes magazine’s “Best City for Finding Employment” list in 2015; and No. 5 on NerdWallet’s “Top Ten Big Cities for Home Ownership” list in 2013. If you are considering expanding your business or relocating to Northeast Florida, then EXIT Real Estate Gallery would like to partner with you. We take great pride in assisting businesses, families and individuals achieve their real estate goals. Whatever your real estate needs are, we have a solution for you and we are prepared to handle all of the details. We recognize that the relocation process can be stressful. This is why we have gone to great efforts to find the right referral partners to assist you in financing, closings, insurance and moving. In addition to saving you money, we want to save you time by offering you our concierge level service. You will not find a better company in Northeast Florida who will work harder for you and all your real estate needs. Let EXIT Real Estate Gallery and our team of dedicated professionals assist you today. We are excited to help you with your journey and we are only a phone call away. We are committed to helping you achieve your goals. On behalf of everyone here at EXIT Real Estate Gallery, welcome to our outstanding team of administrators, staff and real estate professionals. We wish you much success and we look forward to speaking with you soon.
e 2016 Greater Jacksonville Relocation Guide is available to any individual, family or business relocating to the First Coast area. e Guide is provided by EXIT Real Estate Gallery and available at any of their seven locations. Courtesy of EXIT Real Estate Gallery Propertyinjax.com
Publisher Osborne Communications Inc. 904.704.9506
Content and Design e Garnale Group Inc. 904.553.6261
e information in this guide was carefully compiled for maximum accuracy. However, EXIT Real Estate Gallery, Osborne Communications Inc. and e Garnale Group cannot and do not guarantee that this information is without errors or omissions. All content associated with advertisements remain the responsibility of the individual advertiser. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited.
4
www.ExitRealEstateGallery.com
We’re here for you from contract to closing • Residential Buy/Sell • Residential Refinance • Commercial Closings With over 30 years of experience in the Title Insurance Industry and representation of the largest national title insurance underwriters, we have compiled an unsurpassed network of title insurance underwriters through each county in the state of Florida. We pride ourselves on always being there for our customers when they have a question about our title insurance services. Visit our website: www.ffaresidential.com
9424 Baymeadows Rd., Suite 110, Jacksonville, FL 32256
Phone: 904-930-4548 Fax: 904-551-7463 jax@closingsinflorida.com
Inside 4 8 9 11 15 18 22 26 29 31 34 36 38
6
Welcome About Us First Coast Facts Moving In Where To Live? Transportation Education Medical Senior Living Business Arts and Entertainment Outdoor Recreation Military
www.ExitRealEstateGallery.com
ABOUT US
EXIT Real Estate Gallery was established in 2005 as part of the international franchise EXIT Realty Corp. For the past three years, EXIT Real Estate Gallery has received EXIT Realty’s largest grossing brokerage award. Through EXIT Realty’s international network of 800 companies, we can assist you with buying or selling your home throughout the country. In the last 10 years, EXIT Real Estate Gallery has expanded to include six offices and more than 350 agents throughout Northeast Florida, as well as a relocation center at Jacksonville International Airport. When it comes to marketing a property, EXIT Real Estate Gallery focuses on results for our sellers. We develop a complete advertising campaign that includes publications, newspapers, direct mail and the Internet. This technique ensures your property receives the fullest attention and best expertise we can offer. When it comes to finding a home, EXIT Real Estate Gallery provides you with time and knowledge. We will sit down with you and recommend financial lenders along with information about your intended new neighborhood. Our goal is to help you find that perfect home. Through our commitment to our community, EXIT Real Estate Gallery founded Gallery Gives, a team that participates in philanthropy throughout the area. Gallery Gives has contributed time and monies to organizations and community events including the Daniel Kids Foundation, the American Cancer Society, Operation Santa Claus, Hitting for Heroes, Ramp It Up, relief efforts for Superstorm Sandy and more. This dedicated team continues to reach out and assist our community with occasional fund raising and is committed to serving our neighbors in need. At EXIT Real Estate Gallery, we are eager to help you with all your real estate needs. When it comes to a full service company, we put the art in real estate!
Stanley Bishop Jr., Owner/President A native of Jacksonville, Stanley attended the University of North Florida, where he received a bachelor's degree in management with a minor in marketing. He continued his education at Jacksonville University, where he obtained an MBA. In 2012 Stanley was named on the Jacksonville Business Journal’s esteemed “40 Under 40” list. A father of two, Stanley has chosen to raise his family in his hometown. He is passionate about the Jacksonville area and the real estate industry. Stanley is a member of the National Association of Realtors, the Florida Association of Realtors and the Northeast Florida Association of Realtors. He is a Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), and is Graduate Realtor Institute (GRI) and Five Star Real Estate Owned (REO) certified. Stanley’s knowledge of real estate and marketing continues to lead EXIT Real Estate Gallery into a bright and successful future.
Raymond A. Rivera, Owner/Chief Financial Officer A Florida native who chose to settle and raise his family in Jacksonville more than 10 years ago, Raymond is in charge of EXIT Real Estate Gallery’s financial and operational duties. With a bachelor’s degree in business management and a master’s degree in education, his analytic approach to real estate gives a fresh perspective in an ever-evolving business. Raymond also works with the agents, training and coaching them to become the best in the industry. His vast experience, from fast-paced trading on Wall Street to molding young minds as a middle and elementary school teacher, guarantees a well-rounded, out-of-the-box approach to help guide, train and mentor agents to accomplish their real estate goals. He is a member of the National Association of Realtors, the Florida Association of Realtors, the Northeast Florida Association of Realtors and the Women’s Council of Realtors. Raymond is committed to ensuring that EXIT Real Estate Gallery continues to offer the best service and experience in the real estate industry.
Sonny J. Downey, Owner/Chief Technology Officer A Jacksonville native and father of two, Sonny has been involved in the real estate industry for more than 10 years. As Chief Technology Officer, his commitment to providing the very best tools has positioned EXIT Real Estate Gallery agents to be the most tech-savvy in the industry. Sonny is a dedicated professional with vast knowledge of the Greater Jacksonville real estate market. As a multimillion producer, Sonny is respected by his peers and customers for his honesty, integrity and professionalism. His strong sales ability, utilization of the latest technology, innovative marketing methods and outstanding negotiation skills are an asset to both EXIT Real Estate Gallery and the clients he serves. He is a member of the National Association of Realtors, the Florida Association of Realtors, the Northeast Florida Association of Realtors and the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce. Building a business based on referrals and a solid reputation is important to Sonny, and his dedication and drive have earned him several production awards at the local, regional and international levels. He brings this dedication to both the agents and the clients of EXIT Real Estate Gallery.
8
www.ExitRealEstateGallery.com
The Governor of Florida
Rick Scott is the 45th governor of the Sunshine State. Born in Bloomington, Illinois, in 1952, Scott received his law degree from Southern Methodist University’s school of law and was licensed to practice in 1978. Making a name for himself in business and health care before venturing into politics, Scott cofounded the Solantic Corporation in 2001, an urgent care center based in Jacksonville that now provides services to residents all over the state. He was elected governor in 2011 and reelected for a second term in 2015. Office of the Governor - 850.488.7146
First Coast Mayors:
Orange Park - www.townoforangepark.com Mayor - Gary Meeks Mayor’s Office - 904.269.4036 Jacksonville - www.coj.net Mayor - Lenny Curry Mayor’s Office - 904.630.1776
St. Augustine - www.staugustinegoverment.com Mayor - Nancy Shaver Mayor’s Office - 904.217.4801
Demographics:
Duval County Population (2014 Estimate) - 853,382 Median Household Income 2009-2013 - $47,557 Median Age (2014 Estimate) - 36 Percentage of High School Graduates - 87.9% Percentage of College Graduates - 26.4% Homeownership Rate (2009-2013) - 61.6% Personal Income Tax - 0% Sales Tax - 7% Corporate Income Tax - 5.5% Source: census.gov, edr.state.fl.us
Duval County Chamber of Commerce www.myjaxchamber.com Hours of Operation - 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 3 Independent Drive Jacksonville, FL 32202 904.366.6600
FIRST COAST FACTS
Clay County Population (2014 Estimate) - 199,798 Median Household Income 2009-2013 - $59,482 Median Age (2014 Estimate) - 38 Percentage of High School Graduates - 90.2% Percentage of College Graduates - 24% Homeownership Rate (2009-2013) - 76.6% Personal Income Tax - 0% Sales Tax - 7% Corporate Income Tax - 5.5% Source: census.gov, edr.state.fl.us Clay County Chamber of Commerce www.claychamber.com Hours of Operation - 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 1734 Kingsley Ave. Orange Park, FL 32073 904.264.2651
St. Johns County Population (2014 Estimate) - 217,919 Median Household Income 2009-2013 - $64,876 Median Age (2014 Estimate) - 42 Percentage of High School Graduates - 93.2% Percentage of College Graduates - 41.4% Homeownership Rate (2009-2013) - 77% Personal Income Tax - 0% Sales Tax - 6% Corporate Income Tax - 5.5% Source: census.gov, edr.state.fl.us St. Johns County Chamber of Commerce www.stjohnscountychamber.com Hours of Operation - 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 1 Riberia St. St. Augustine, FL 32084 904.829.5681
Mileage from Jacksonville to Major Southeastern Cities
To Orlando - 141 Miles (About 2 Hours) To Tallahassee - 165 Miles (About 2.5 Hours) To Gainesville - 71.6 Miles (About 1.5 Hours) To Miami - 346 Miles (About 5 Hours) To Savannah - 139 Miles (About 2 Hours) To Atlanta - 346 Miles (About 5 Hours)
www.ExitRealEstateGallery.com
9
FIRST COAST FACTS
Outdoor enthusiasts can find lots to do thanks to abundant sunshine.
Climate
The First Coast has a subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild winters with plenty of sunlight. While the First Coast boasts beautiful weather nearly 12 months out of the year, there are times when severe weather can pose a serious threat. As a resident, it is important to be aware of hurricane season (June to November) and the following preparedness alerts (noaa.gov).
Tropical Storm or Hurricane? Less intense than typical hurricanes, tropical storms are powerful low pressure storm systems that typically develop in the tropics. These storms can cause property damage through heavy rains and flooding, while tornadoes and high winds can pose a risk. A hurricane is a large and organized storm system with maximum sustained wind speeds of no less than 74mph. Tropical Storm Watch: Tropical storm conditions are possible within specified area. Tropical Storm Warning: Tropical storm conditions are expected within specified area.
January: Average High - 64° Average Low - 45° Rainfall - 3.39 inches February: Average High - 67° Average Low - 47° Rainfall - 2.59 inches March: Average High - 73° Average Low - 53° Rainfall - 3.97 inches
10
Hurricane Watch: Hurricane conditions are possible within specified area. -If your area is issued a Watch announcement, ensure home preparedness and review your evacuation procedure.
Hurricane Warning: Hurricane conditions are expected within specified area. -If your area is issued a Warning announcement, complete storm preparations and leave threatened area if directed by local officials.
Hurricane Categories: Category 1 2 3 4 5
Sustained Winds 74-95mph 96-110mph 111-129mph 130-156mph 157mph or higher
For more information on emergency preparedness, visit noaa.gov or contact your local emergency management office. Clay County - 605.677.7185 Duval County - 904.253.1270 St. Johns County - 904.824.5550
Monthly Average Temperature & Rainfall April: Average High - 79° Average Low - 58° Rainfall - 2.72 inches
July: Average High - 90° Average Low - 74° Rainfall - 6 inches
October: Average High - 79° Average Low - 63° Rainfall - 3.3 inches
June: Average High - 89° Average Low - 71° Rainfall - 5.78 inches
September: Average High - 86° Average Low - 71° Rainfall - 7.3 inches
December: Average High - 65° Average Low - 47° Rainfall - 2.45 inches
May: Average High - 85° Average Low - 66° Rainfall - 3.22 inches
www.ExitRealEstateGallery.com
August: Average High - 89° Average Low - 74° Rainfall - 5.9 inches
November: Average High - 72° Average Low - 55° Rainfall - 2.35 inches
GETTING STARTED ON THE FIRST COAST
MOVING IN
Settling into your new home on the First Coast is easy when you know who to contact and where to go for all of life’s essentials. With a population of more than 1.2 million, the counties of Clay, Duval and St. Johns are equipped with resources to provide residents with everything from day-today needs like cable and utilities to emergency services in the form of police and fire departments. Families with children can contact their county’s school system to explore options for their students’ education. Citizens looking for community involvement can reach out to their county government for opportunities to participate in local politics or social events. The Greater Jacksonville area is well-appointed to make your transition to the First Coast safe, easy and enjoyable.
Clay County In addition to services provided by the county itself, larger towns in Clay County like Green Cove Springs and Orange Park are outfitted with their own governmental bodies, as well as police and fire departments, to ensure the safety and comfort of their citizens. A successful public school system, several post office and motor vehicle department locations, and utility companies established exclusively for the area are also available for the convenience of Clay County residents.
CITY AND COUNTY GOVERNMENT Clay County Animal Care & Control 904-269-6342 www.claycountygov.com/departments/animal-care-control Clay County Clerk of the Circuit Court www.clayclerk.com Green Cove Springs 904-284-6302 Keystone Heights 352-478-8016 Middleburg 904-282-6490 Orange Park 904-278-4769 Clay County Parks and Recreation 904-284-6378 www.claycountygov.com/departments/parks-and-recreation Clay County Public Schools www.oneclay.net/schools-3 Green Cove Springs 904-284-6500 Keystone Heights 888-663-2529 Middleburg/Orange Park 904-272-8100 Clay County Public Works www.claycountygov.com/departments/public-works Green Cove Springs 904-284-6335 Keystone Heights 352-473-3711 Middleburg/Orange Park 904-269-6335 Clay County Chamber of Commerce 904-264-2651 www.claychamber.com Department of Motor Vehicles www.flhsmv.gov/offices/clay.html Green Cove Springs 904-284-6320 Keystone Heights 352-473-4899 Orange Park 904-269-1400/904-529-5337 Florida Department of Health (Clay County) 904-529-2800 clay.floridahealth.gov Green Cove Springs City Clerk 904-297-7500, ext. 3307 www.greencovesprings.com/departments/city_clerk
Orange Park Town Clerk 904-278-3018 www.townoforangepark.com/town-government/town-clerk/ EMERGENCY NUMBERS AND WEBSITES Emergency 9-1-1 American Red Cross 904-358-8091 www.redcross.org/fl/jacksonville Clay County Sheriff’s Office 904-264-6512 www.claysheriff.com Clay County Fire and Rescue 904-284-7703 www.claycountyfirerescue.com Florida Fish and Wildlife – Community Relations Office 850-488-4676 www.myfwc.com Florida Highway Patrol (Jacksonville station) 904-695-4000 www.flhsmv.gov/florida-highway-patrol/about-fhp Florida Poison Control Centers 800-222-1222 www.fpicn.org Green Cove Springs Police Department 904-297-7300 www.greencovesprings.com/departments/police_department Orange Park Fire Department 904-264-3411 www.orangeparkfire.com Orange Park Police Department 904-264-5555 www.orangeparkpolice.com INTERNET, CABLE AND SATELLITE AT&T – Customer Service www.att.com/contactus Comcast XFINITY – Customer Service customer.xfinity.com/contact-us Dish – Customer Service www.dish.com/contact
800-934-6489
NEWSPAPERS Clay Today www.claytodayonline.com
904-264-3200
800-331-0500
855-318-0572
www.ExitRealEstateGallery.com
11
MOVING IN POST OFFICES postofficefinder.org/fl/clay Fleming Island Retail Post Office Green Cove Springs Post Office Keystone Heights Post Office Lake Geneva Post Office Middleburg Post Office Orange Park Mall Post Office Orange Park Post Office Penney Farms Post Office Ridgewood Post Office UTILITIES Clay County Utility Authority (Water) www.clayutility.org Clay Electric Cooperative, Inc. – Keystone Heights www.clayelectric.com Clay Electric Cooperative, Inc. – Orange Park www.clayelectric.com TECO Peoples Gas www.peoplesgas.com
904-264-1388 904-284-9442 352-473-4675 352-473-4661 904-282-5721 904-215-9814 904-264-1388 904-529-9611 904-272-2709
904-272-5999 352-473-4917 904-272-2456 877-832-6747
Duval County The largest county on the First Coast, Duval County has abundant resources to serve the nearly 1 million citizens residing in Jacksonville and the neighboring towns of Jacksonville Beach, Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach and Baldwin. Several newspapers including the Florida TimesUnion and the Jacksonville Business Journal allow residents to stay up-to-date on current events, and multiple police forces and fire departments help insure citizens’ safety. Local utility companies like Jacksonville Electric Authority provide power, and national cable and Internet companies like AT&T and Comcast keep residents well connected. CITY AND COUNTY GOVERNMENT Atlantic Beach Animal Control 904-247-5866 fl-atlanticbeach.civicplus.com/index.aspx?nid=9 Atlantic Beach City Clerk 904-247-5809 fl-atlanticbeach.civicplus.com/index.aspx?nid=19 Atlantic Beach Department of Recreation 904-247-5828 Programs and Special Events fl-atlanticbeach.civicplus.com/index.aspx?nid=13 Atlantic Beach Planning and Zoning 904-247-5800 fl-atlanticbeach.civicplus.com/index.aspx?nid=26 Atlantic Beach Public Works 904-247-5834 fl-atlanticbeach.civicplus.com/index.aspx?nid=15 Duval County Clerk of Courts 904-255-2000 www.duvalclerk.com Duval County Department of Motor Vehicles 904-630-1916 www.flhsmv.gov/offices/duval.html Duval County Public Schools 904-390-2000 www.duvalschools.org Florida Department of Health (Duval County) 904-253-1000 duval.floridahealth.gov Jacksonville Beach Animal Control 904-247-6167 www.jacksonvillebeach.org/government/departments/police/services-division/animal-control Jacksonville Beach City Clerk 904-247-6250, ext. 11 www.jacksonvillebeach.org/government/departments/city-clerk Jacksonville Beach City Council & Mayor’s Office 904-247-6288 www.jacksonvillebeach.org/government/government/mayor-city-council 12
www.ExitRealEstateGallery.com
Jacksonville Beach Parks & Recreation 904-247-6236 www.jacksonvillebeach.org/government/departments/parks-recreation Jacksonville Beach Planning & Development Division 904-247-6231 www.jacksonvillebeach.org/government/departments/planning-development-1 Jacksonville Beach Public Works 904-247-6219 www.jacksonvillebeach.org/government/departments/public-works Jacksonville Animal Care & Protective Services 904-630-2489 www.coj.net/departments/environmental-and-compliance/animal-care--protective-services Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce 904-366-6600 www.myjaxchamber.com Jacksonville City Council 904-630-1377 www.coj.net/city-council.aspx Jacksonville Office of the Mayor 904-630-1776 www.coj.net/mayor.aspx Jacksonville Parks, Recreation and Community Services 904-255-7902 (Community Relations) www.coj.net/departments/parks-and-recreation.aspx Jacksonville Planning and Development 904-255-7800 www.coj.net/departments/planning-and-development.aspx Jacksonville Public Works 904-630-2489 www.coj.net/departments/public-works.aspx Neptune Beach Animal Control 904-270-2411 ci.neptune-beach.fl.us/public_safety_animal_ control.htm Neptune Beach Building and Zoning 904-270-2400, ext. 35 ci.neptune-beach.fl.us/Building--Zoning-6-90.html Neptune Beach City Clerk 904-270-2400, ext. 30 ci.neptune-beach.fl.us/City-Clerk-10-125.html Neptune Beach Mayor’s Office 904-571-1755 ci.neptune-beach.fl.us/City-Council-6-46.html Neptune Beach Public Works 904-270-2423 ci.neptune-beach.fl.us/Public-Works-6-52.html EMERGENCY NUMBERS AND WEBSITES Emergency 9-1-1 American Red Cross 904-358-8091 www.redcross.org/fl/jacksonville Atlantic Beach Fire and Rescue 904-247-5869 www.coab.us/index.aspx?nid=28 Atlantic Beach Police Department 904-247-5859 www.coab.us/index.aspx?nid=25 Baldwin Fire Department 904-266-4870 Baldwin Police Department 904-266-4468 Florida Fish and Wildlife – Community Relations Office 850-488-4676 www.myfwc.com Florida Highway Patrol (Jacksonville station) 904-695-4000 www.flhsmv.gov/florida-highway-patrol/about-fhp Florida Poison Control Centers 800-222-1222 www.fpicn.org Jacksonville Beach Fire and Emergency Services 904-247-6201 www.jacksonvillebeach.org/government/departments/fire-and-emergencyservices Jacksonville Beach Police Department 904-270-1667 www.jacksonvillebeach.org/government/departments/police Jacksonville Fire and Rescue 904-630-0434 www.coj.net/departments/fire-and-rescue.aspx Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office 904-630-0500 www.jaxsheriff.org Neptune Beach Police Department 904-270-2413 ci.neptune-beach.fl.us/Police-Department-6-54.html
MOVING IN INTERNET, CABLE AND SATELLITE AT&T – Customer Service www.att.com/contactus Comcast XFINITY – Customer Service customer.xfinity.com/contact-us Dish – Customer Service www.dish.com/contact NEWSPAPERS Florida Times Union www.jacksonville.com Folio Weekly www.folioweekly.com Jacksonville Business Journal www.bizjournals.com/jacksonville Jacksonville Free Press www.jacksonvillefreepress.com POST OFFICES www.postofficefinder.org/fl/duval Arlington Post Office Atlantic Beach Post Office Baldwin Post Office Baymeadows Post Office Carver Post Office Downtown Post Office Jacksonville Beach Post Office Jacksonville Naval Air Station Post Office Lake Forest Post Office Lake Shore Post Office Mandarin Post Office Mayport Naval Station Post Office Monument Post Office Murray Hill Post Office North Jacksonville Post Office Pottsburg Post Office South Jacksonville Post Office Southpoint Post Office Springfield Post Office Westland Post Office UTILITIES Beaches Energy Services (Electric, Water, Sewer, Natural Gas, Sanitation) www.beachesenergy.com Jacksonville Electric Authority (JEA) (Residential) (Electric, Water, Sewer) (Commercial) www.jea.com Neptune Beach Utilities (Water, Sewer, Garbage and Recycling) ci.neptune-beach.fl.us/Utilities-6-88.html TECO Peoples Gas www.peoplesgas.com
800-331-0500 800-934-6489 855-318-0572
904-359-4111 904-260-9770 904-396-3502 904-634-1993
904-743-8452 904-241-2026 904-266-4910 904-268-1545 904-353-8267 904-366-4820 904-249-5426 904-771-6826 904-764-3441 904-771-6826 904-737-4852 904-249-9523 904-641-9676 904-781-4701 904-696-2058 904-641-2172 904-396-6748 904-296-4540 904-353-3578 904-771-3086
904-247-6241
904-665-6000 904-665-6250 904-270-2400, ext. 25
904-739-1211
St. Johns County St. Johns County’s government, fire and rescue and police departments, and local utilities departments serve the residents of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, Ponte Vedra Beach, Hastings and several other residential communities. Citizens of the county enjoy learning about community news and events through the local newspaper, the St. Augustine Record.
CITY AND COUNTY GOVERNMENT St. Augustine City Clerk 904-825-1007 www.staugustinegovernment.com/your_government/admin-city-clerk.cfm St. Augustine Planning and Building 904-825-1065 www.staugustinegovernment.com/your_government/admin-planning-building.cfm St. Augustine Public Works 904-825-1040 www.staugustinegovernment.com/your_government/admin-publicworks.cfm St. Johns County Animal Control 904-209-6190 www.co.st-johns.fl.us/AnimalControl St. Johns County Chamber of Commerce 904-829-5681 www.stjohnscountychamber.com St. Johns County Clerk of the Circuit Court 904-819-3600 www.sjccoc.us St. Johns County Department of Motor Vehicles 904-209-2250 www.flhsmv.gov/offices/stjohns.html St. Johns County Parks & Recreation 904-209-0333 www.sjcfl.us/Recreation St. Johns County Public Works 904-209-0266 www.sjcfl.us/publicworks St. Johns County School District 904-547-7500 www.stjohns.k12.fl.us EMERGENCY NUMBERS AND WEBSITES Emergency American Red Cross www.redcross.org/fl/jacksonville Florida Fish and Wildlife – Community Relations Office www.myfwc.com Florida Highway Patrol (Jacksonville station) www.flhsmv.gov/florida-highway-patrol/about-fhp
9-1-1 904-358-8091 850-488-4676 904-695-4000
www.ExitRealEstateGallery.com
13
MOVING IN Florida Poison Control Centers 800-222-1222 www.fpicn.org St. Augustine Beach Police Department 904-471-3600 www.sabpd.org St. Augustine Fire Department 904-825-1098 www.staugustinegovernment.com/your_government/fire-department/fire-department.cfm St. Augustine Police Department 904-825-1074 www.staugustinegovernment.com/your_government/admin-police-dept.cfm St. Johns County Fire and Rescue 904-209-1700 www.sjcfl.us/FireRescue St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office 904-824-8304 www.sjso.org INTERNET, CABLE AND SATELLITE AT&T – Customer Service www.att.com/contactus Comcast XFINITY – Customer Service customer.xfinity.com/contact-us Dish – Customer Service www.dish.com/contact NEWSPAPERS The St. Augustine Record www.staugustine.com
14
www.ExitRealEstateGallery.com
800-331-0500 800-934-6489 855-318-0572
904-829-6562
POST OFFICES www.postofficefinder.org/fl/saint-johns Anastasia Island Post Office Elkton Post Office Hastings Post Office Midtown Annex Northwest St. Johns Post Office Ponte Vedra Beach Post Office St. Augustine Annex St. Augustine Post Office UTILITIES Florida Power and Light (FPL) www.fpl.com Jacksonville Electric Authority (JEA) (Residential) (Electric, Water, Sewer) (Commercial) www.jea.com St. Johns County Solid Waste Department (Garbage and Recycling) www.sjcfl.us/SolidWaste St. Johns County Utility Department (Water, Sewer) www.sjcfl.us/Utilities Main Office Ponte Vedra Office TECO Peoples Gas www.peoplesgas.com
904-825-0628 904-692-2099 904-692-1592 904-810-5187 904-230-3473 904-543-8607 904-829-1142 904-825-0628
800-226-3545 904-665-6000 904-665-6250 904-827-6950
904-209-2700 904-209-2728 904-739-1211
WHERE TO LIVE?
DISCOVER THE PERFECT NEIGHBORHOOD FOR YOU
Whether you’re looking to live in a historic home or a modern community, Northeast Florida has the perfect area for you. From the metropolitan area of Downtown Jacksonville to the historic charm of St. Augustine, every couple, family and individual will find the community that’s right for them.
Clay County
Fleming Island is located 21 miles southwest of Downtown Jacksonville in Clay County. This community has a population of more than 27,000 residents and a variety of retail stores, restaurants and churches located throughout the island, as well as outdoor activity areas including three golf courses.
Green Cove Springs, which is named after the portion of the St. Johns River that the community was built on, is the county seat of Clay County. The town is located south of Jacksonville and has more than 6,000 residents who enjoy events including Green Cove’s most well known festival, the Memorial Day RiverFest. www.ExitRealEstateGallery.com
15
WHERE TO LIVE?
Popular First Coast Neighborhoods Arlington Ft. Caroline, Sandlewood Atlantic Beach Atlantic Beach Country Club Downtown Avondale, Riverside, San Marco, Springfield Fleming Island Eagle Harbor, Fleming Island Plantation, Hibernia Plantation, Pace Island Green Cove Springs Lake Asbury, Magnolia Point Country Club, Rolling Hills Jacksonville Beach Acquilus, Paradise Key, Pier Pointe, Surfside Julington Creek Durbin Crossing, Julington Creek Plantation, Rivertown Mandarin Waterford Estates, Whitmore Oaks Middleburg The Ravines, Two Creeks Neptune Beach Neptune Grove, Neptune Marsh, Northshore Nocatee Coastal Oaks, Del Webb Greenleaf Village, Twenty Mile Village Northside Amelia View, Black Hammock Island, Hidden Lakes, North Creek Orange Park Eagle Landing, Oakleaf Plantation, Orange Park Country Club, Ponte Vedra Beach Marsh Landing, The Plantation, Sawgrass Southside Deerwood Country Club, East Hampton, Jacksonville Golf & Country Club, Tapestry Park World Golf Village The Cascades, Glenmor, Heritage Landing, King of the Bear, Laterra Links
Orange Park has a rich history in Northeast Florida. Originally founded in 1877 by the Florida Winter Home and Improvement Company, the town has grown from a small farming community to a well-known part of the Jacksonville area. The community has more than 8,000 residents who enjoy special events including a fall festival, a Carrie Clarke Day celebration and a monthly farmers and arts market.
Middleburg is located southwest of Downtown Jacksonville. With a population of more than 13,000 residents, this small town is continually growing. Once a small, rural community, this expanding area offers residents a small-town feel with the amenities of a big city, including shopping and attractions. Homes in this area include townhomes and single-family homes.
Duval County
In 1564, Arlington was the site of France’s Fort Caroline. Today, Arlington is a suburban town known for its natural treasures. Attractions include Tree Hill Nature Center, Fort Caroline National Memorial and the 46,000-acre Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve, which is considered one of the most beautiful natural settings in Florida.
The beaches of Duval County are made up of 22 miles of pristine sand and include Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach, Atlantic Beach and the historic fishing village of Mayport. Jacksonville Beach, the largest of these communities, is known for its restaurants and nightlife as well as special events. North of Jacksonville Beach are Atlantic Beach and Neptune Beach. The intersection of these two communities is a hub of both casual and upscale dining including restaurants Ocean 60 and North Beach Fish Camp. Farthest north of the beachside communities is the historic village of Mayport, which is home to casino boats and seafood restaurants offering their freshest catch. Although Downtown Jacksonville is a business hub, there are also great places to live within the area. Downtown Jacksonville boasts condominiums and upscale apartments, as well as historic homes. Located just southwest on the St. Johns Riverbank is Five Points (commonly known as the Riverside area). Just south of Downtown is the historic neighborhood of San Marco. Both neighborhoods are known for their cuisine and beautiful city views, as well as their close proximity to Downtown and historic homes.
Mandarin is located in southern Duval County on the eastern bank of the St. Johns River. The neighborhood is known for its oak trees draped with Spanish moss and wonderful views of the river. Although it was once an important river port used to ship oranges, Mandarin now boasts residential neighborhoods, restaurants and shopping centers.
The northern areas of Downtown Jacksonville make up the Northside. Residents of this area enjoy close proximity to the business district of Downtown, Jacksonville International Airport, the Jacksonville Zoo and other area attractions.
16
www.ExitRealEstateGallery.com
Jacksonville’s Southside area is a bustling business community with a wealth of shopping and dining options, as well as condominiums and single family homes. The area is home to both the Avenues Mall, an indoor shopping center, and the extravagant St. Johns Town Center, a 1.1 million-square-foot open-air lifestyle center offering innovative new retail, residential, hotel and dining choices.
WHERE TO LIVE?
St. Johns County
Julington Creek is a community in northern St. Johns County that consists of several neighborhoods offering a variety of options to residents including condominiums, townhomes, single family homes and luxury homes. The area is popular with young families, with its largest age demographic ranging from 30-50 years old. This popular community boasts outdoor recreational amenities including the 18-hole golf course Julington Creek Golf Club.
Nocatee is a recently developed planned community south of Jacksonville primarily in St. Johns County—parts of the community lie in Duval County. This coastal area was voted the third best-selling community in America. Residents enjoy Splash Water Park, the community’s premier water park. The neighborhood has a variety of communities with new homes listed at a wide range of price points.
Ponte Vedra Beach is located just south of Jacksonville Beach in St. Johns County. Known for its upscale homes and tourist resorts, this beachside community is home to The Players Championship, an annual golf tournament on the PGA Tour.
St. Augustine is the county seat of St. Johns County. Rich with history, the city was the capital of Spanish Florida for more than 200 years. Today, the community is loved by tourists for its small shops and exciting attractions, as well as Spanish Colonial architecture in the downtown area. St. Augustine Beach is located on Anastasia Island and offers residents gorgeous views of the Intracoastal Waterway and Atlantic Ocean. Both areas have a number of attractions including the St. Augustine Lighthouse, the Lightner Museum, Potter’s Wax Museum and Ripley’s Believe It or Not.
The Neighborhoods of World Golf Village are located in St. Johns County between Jacksonville and Downtown St. Augustine. This golf community has homes tucked away in neighborhoods and streets that intertwine with thousands of acres of nature preserves and unspoiled uplands. Each neighborhood has easy access to golf, tennis, shopping and restaurants.
www.ExitRealEstateGallery.com
17
TRANSPORTATION
GETTING AROUND THE FIRST COAST Measuring as the largest city by landmass in the lower 48 states and the 12th most populous city in the United States, Jacksonville has its share of unique and attractive means of transportation. With four deep-water seaport facilities, seven bridges spanning the St. Johns River and an international airport, Jacksonville residents have many options when it comes to transportation and getting to and from the Greater Jacksonville area. Spanning almost 900 square miles, the First Coast is an area that often requires driving. Fortunately, the interstate system is designed to allow residents and visitors to get to their destinations in the quickest times possible. Interstate 295 is a loop that encircles the city, providing quick access to nearly any area of town. Cutting through I-295 is I-95, an interstate that runs north to south from the Eastern United States to Florida. Interstate 10 runs perpendicular to I-95 and gives quick east-west travel through the southeast. I-10 will take drivers straight to Tallahassee, Interstate 75 and beyond. For the aerially inclined, Jacksonville International Airport is located 13 miles north of the city and offers international and domestic flights. The airport houses shopping and restaurants for those waiting to fly or for loved ones to arrive. Taxis, airport shuttles and rental car services are available. Smaller airports, such as Cecil Airport, Herlong Recreational Airport and Jacksonville Executive at Craig Airport are also available for smaller, local flights. Jacksonville is also home to the U.S. Navy’s Naval Air Station in Jacksonville, also known as NASJAX. For shorter, local trips—particularly downtown— Jacksonville offers the “Jacksonville Skyway.” The Skyway is an automated monorail train that runs through various areas of Downtown Jacksonville, stopping at eight stations located near museums, nightlife and shopping. The Skyway conveniently allows riders quick transport through various areas of downtown. Another form of travel within Jacksonville is the Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA). JTA serves Duval County and offers a network of public transportation across one of the nation’s largest cities. JTA buses can be found traversing nearly every major road in the city and offer a quick and convenient means of travel for those who prefer public transportation. JTA also offers a shuttle for events at the stadium and a beach trolley for shopping in and around the coast. Of course, no discussion of transportation on the First Coast would be complete without touching on Jacksonville’s historic and close relationship with the Atlantic Ocean and its waterways. The downtown area is divided by the St. Johns River and Jacksonville offers seven bridges to transport
18
www.ExitRealEstateGallery.com
visitors and residents across the river. Additionally, the St. Johns River Ferry transports drivers and their vehicles across the river in northern Jacksonville. For commerce, there are four deep water seaports, making the city a powerful international trade center. For tourists, the Jaxport Cruise Terminal offers cruises to the Bahamas and Key West and has taken more than 1.5 million people sailing in the last 10 years. Offering land-based commercial muscle, multiple railroad routes work together with the local ports to make Jacksonville a powerful hub for logistics and shipping. CSX alone maintains almost 3,000 miles of track across Florida and more than 2,500 public and private crossings. The corporate headquarters for CSX is located in Jacksonville and can be easily seen from many of the bridges that crisscross the downtown skyline. Encompassing a large area with an enormous range of options for visitors, residents and adventurers alike, the First Coast provides convenient transportation for work or play. Contact Information
CLAY COUNTY: Clay Transit: www.claytransit.com Keystone Heights Airport: www.keystoneairport.com
DUVAL COUNTY: Jacksonville International Airport: www.flyjax.com Jacksonville Transportation Authority: www.jtafla.com/ JAXPORT: www.jaxport.com JAXPORT Cruise Terminal: www.jaxport.com/cruise St. Johns River Ferry: www.stjohnsriverferry.com
ST. JOHNS COUNTY: Northeast Florida Regional Airport: www.flynf.com St. Augustine Port, Waterway & Beach District: www.staugustineport.com The Sunshine Bus Company: www.sunshinebus.net
904-284-5977
352-473-0031
904-741-4902
904-630-3100 904-357-3000
904-357-3006
904-241-9969 904-209-0090 904-824-0113
904-209-3716
EDUCATION
TODAY’S STUDENT, TOMORROW’S SUCCESS Northeast Florida offers a wealth of education options for any age. Whether you’re looking to enroll your child in prekindergarten or take higher education classes to advance your career, Northeast Florida has plenty of choices. We are home to one of the best-rated school systems in the state and boast exciting choices for early education through upper level learning, including homeschool programs, charter schools, private schools, exceptional student education programs, magnet schools and virtual school. The STEM program, which stands for science, technology, engineering and math, is offered at certain schools in the region to foster student interest in these core subjects. Homeschooling is an alternative to public and private schools, and each county in the area has a contact with whom interested parents can connect to learn more. The region has a growing homeschool population and Duval County leads the state with 6,106 homeschooled students as of July 2015. Florida Virtual School is another option for students from kindergarten to 12th grade. Students can enroll part time or full time and access by Internet more than 150 courses, from geometry to AP art history. University of North Florida, a public university accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award baccalaureate, masters and doctorate degrees, is located in the Greater Jacksonville area. Jacksonville University and Flagler University are two private colleges with long-standing roots in the area. Florida offers programs to help students succeed. The Florida Bright Futures Scholarship provides high school graduates with high academic achievements with three lotteryfunded scholarships. The Florida 529 Savings Plan helps parents easily save for their students’ future education.
Florida 529 Savings Plan Website: www.myfloridaprepaid.com/what-we-offer/529-savings-plan Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program Website: www.floridastudentfinancialaid.org/ssfad/bf
Clay County Education Clay County Schools have held AdvancED’s most prestigious accredited status since 2010. AdvanceED is a non-profit organization that conducts rigorous, on-site external reviews of PreK-12 schools and school systems. Today, the county is home to 45 public schools where the student to teacher ratio is below the state average, and serves 34,727 students. Students can also attend Orange Park Performing Arts Academy, which is the only performing arts academy for kindergarten through sixth grade in the county. The county also has a wide variety of private schools serving pre-kindergarten through 12th grade, as well as many with religious affiliations, giving parents a choice in their children’s education. Public Schools: School District of Clay County Phone: (904) 284-6500 (Green Cove Springs) (904) 272-8100 (Orange Park/Middleburg) (904) 663-2529 (Keystone Heights) Website: www.oneclay.net Grades Served: K – 12 22
www.ExitRealEstateGallery.com
Florida Virtual School: Phone: (800) 374-1430 Website: www.flvs.net Grades Served: K – 12 Homeschool: Homeschool Information in Clay County Phone: (904) 272-8189 Website: www.homeschoolingflorida.com/resources/clay.html Private Schools: Annunciation Catholic School Main phone: (904) 282-0504 Website: www.annunciationcatholic.org Grades Served: Pre-K – 8 Berean Christian Academy Phone: (904) 264-5333 Website: www.thebereanbaptistchurch.com/berean_christian_academy.html Grades Served: Pre-K3 – 12 Black Creek Christian School Phone: (904) 282-4033 Website: www.blackcreekchristianschool.com Grades Served: K – 12 The Broach School Phone: (904) 637-0300 Website: www.broachschool.com Grades Served: K – 12 Calvary Christian Academy Phone: (904) 282-0407 Grades Served: K – 12 Center Academy of Orange Park Phone: (904) 276-3552 Website: www.centeracademy.com/locations/jacksonville-fl-orange-park Grades Served: 6 – 12 Crossroads Christian School Phone: (904) 653-1282 Website: www.crossroadsschools.com Grades Served: K – 12
EDUCATION Faith Christian Academy Phone: (904) 276-1300 Website: www.fcaflorida.com Grades Served: K – 12 Grace Episcopal Day School Phone: (904) 269-3718 Website: www.geds.net Grades Served: Pre-K3 – 8 Heritage Christian Academy Phone: (904) 269-2405 Grades Served: 1 – 12 High Point Christian Academy Phone: (904) 272-7949 #114 Website: www.highpointchristianacademy.net Grades Served: 5 – 12 Madeira Christian Academy Phone: (904) 291-1875 Website: www.madeirachristianacademy.com Grades Served: K-3 – 8 Mound Street Christian Academy Phone: (904) 269-7248 Website: www.msca.academy Grades Served: 1 – 12 Pinewood Christian Academy Phone: (904) 272-6408 Website: www.pcaknights.org Grades Served: Pre-K – 8 Seven Bridges School Phone: (904) 269 - 7377 Website: www.albertseducationcenter.com Grades Served: K – 6 St. Johns Country Day School Phone: (904) 264-9572 Website: www.sjcds.net Grades Served: Pre-K3 – 12 Exceptional Student Education: The Broach School Phone: (904) 637-0300 Website: www.broachschool.com Grades Served: K – 12 Clay County Exceptional Student Education Phone: (904) 284-6509 Website: www.oneclay.net/ese Grades Served: Pre-K – 12 The G.I.F.T.ed Learning Center Phone: (904) 460-4623 Website: www.thegiftedlearningcenter.com Grades Served: K – 12 The H.E.L.P House Phone: (904) 269-1030 Grades Served: 1 – 12 Individualized Education Services Phone: (904) 269-7377 Website: www.albertseducationcenter.com Lighthouse Christian School (Middleburg) Phone: (904) 406-4866 Website: www.lighthousechristianschool.net Grades Served: 1 – 12
Community and State Colleges: St. Johns River State College Phone: (904) 276-6800 Website: www.sjrstate.edu/campusopc.html
Duval County Education As the largest county in our area, Duval County serves the most students. It is the 22nd largest school district in the nation, and the sixth largest in Florida. Duval County Public Schools’ mission to ensure educational excellence is reflected daily in every school, for every student. There are more than 30 magnet programs in the county that focus on themes or career areas of special interest including culinary arts, computer science and medical professions. Students can follow the same magnet theme from elementary school through middle and high school. In addition to Duval County’s public schools, there are 156 private schools serving 27,994 students. Duval County is also home to the University of North Florida, which has made Princeton Review’s list of the “Best Southeastern” colleges for seven consecutive years as of 2016. Florida State College of Jacksonville, an accredited college by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award baccalaureate and associate degrees, and Jacksonville University, a private college, are also located in Duval County. Public Schools: Duval County Public Schools Phone: (904) 390-2000 Website: www.duvalschools.org Grades Served: K – 12 Florida Virtual School: Phone: (800) 374-1430 Website: www.flvs.net Grades Served: K – 12 Homeschool: Homeschool Information in Duval County Phone: (904) 390-2477 Website: www.homeschoolingflorida.com/resources/duval.html Magnet Schools: Duval County Magnet Schools Phone: (904) 390-2082 (904) 390-2144 Website: www.duvalchoice.com/options/magnetschools Grades Served: K – 12 Private Schools: A Child’s Place Montessori School Phone: (904) 268-4050 (Mandarin) Phone: (904) 733-5797 (Southpoint) Website: www.a-childs-place.com Grades Served: Pre-K – 5 Academie de Montessori Phone: (904) 398-3830 Website: www.academie-de-montessori.org Grades Served: Pre-K – 5
Arlington Country Day School Phone: (904) 762-0123 Website: www.arlingtoncountrydayschoolfoundation.org Grades Served: K – 12 Assumption Catholic School Phone: (904) 398-1774 Website: www.assumptionjax.org Grades Served: Pre-K – 8 Baymeadows Christian Academy Phone: (904) 733-3400 Website: www.bcajx.org Grades Served: K – 8 Beaches Chapel School Phone: (904) 241-4211 Website: www.beacheschapelschool.com Grades Served: K-4 – 12 Beaches Episcopal School Phone: (904)246-2466 Website: www.beachesepiscopalschool.org Grades Served: Pre-K – 6 The Beaches School Phone: (904) 249-0905 Website: www.thebeachesschool.com Grades Served: Pre- K – 9 Bethel Holiness Academy Phone: (904) 781-5400 Grades Served: K – 12 Bible Baptist Academy Phone: (904) 765-5111 Grades Served: 2 – 12 Bishop John J. Snyder High School Phone: (904) 771-1029 Website: www.bishopsnyder.org Grades Served: 9 – 12 Bishop Kenny High School Phone: (904) 398-7545 Website: www.bishopkenny.org Grades Served: 9 – 12 Blessed Trinity Catholic School Phone: (904) 641-6458 Website: www.blessedtrinitycatholicschool.org Grades Served: Pre-K – 8 The Bolles School Phone: (904) 256-5030 Website: www.bolles.org Grades Served: Pre-K – 12 The Broach School Phone: (904) 637-0300 Website: www.broachschool.com Grades Served: K – 12 Cedar Creek Christian School Phone: (904) 781-9151 Website: www.ccbaptist.org Grades Served: Pre-K – 12
Al-Furqan Academy Phone: (904) 645-0810 Website: www.alfurqanacademy.org Grades Served: Pre-K – 7 www.ExitRealEstateGallery.com
23
EDUCATION Father’s H.A.R.B.O.R. Academy Phone: (904) 306-9579 Website: www.fathersharboracademy.com Grades Served: K – 12 First Baptist Academy of Jacksonville Phone: (904) 265-7474 (Lower and Middle School) (904) 265-7318 (Junior Academy) Website: www.fbcjaxacademy.com Grades Served: Pre-K – 8 The Foundation Academy Phone: (904) 493–7300 Website: www.foundationacademy.com Grades Served: K – 12
Cedar Hills Baptist Christian School Phone: (904) 772-0812 Website: www.chbcs.org Grades Served: Pre-K – 8 Christ’s Church Academy Phone: (904) 268-8667 Website: www.ccajax.org Grades Served: K – 12 Christ the King Catholic School Phone: (904) 724-2954 Website: www.ctkschooljax.com Grades Served: Pre-K4 – 8 Christian Heritage Academy Phone: www.chajax.org Website: (904) 733-4722 Grades Served: Pre-K – 8 Conservative Christian Academy Phone: (904) 268-7778 Website: www.conservative.edu/academy/academy1.htm Grades Served: 7 – 12 Cornerstone School Phone: (904) 730-5500 Website: www.ccsjax.org Grades Served: K-5 – 12 Crossroads Christian School Phone: (888) 705-2821 Website: www.crossroadsschools.com Grades Served: K – 12
Grace Christian Academy Phone: (904) 266-9532 Website: www.gbcbaldwin.org/christian-academy.html Grades Served: Pre-K – 12 Harvest Christian Academy Phone: (904) 724-8223 Grades Served: K – 12 Harvest Community School Phone: (904) 997-1882 Website: www.hcsjax.ning.com Grades Served: Pre-K – 12 Heart to Heart Christian Academy Phone: (904) 783-8631 Website: www.h2hacademy.com Grades Served: K – 12 Holy Family Catholic School Phone: (904) 645-9875 Website: www.hfcatholicschool.com Grades Served: Pre-K – 8 Holy Rosary Catholic School Phone: (904) 765-6522 Website: www.holyrosaryschooljax.org Grades Served: Pre-K – 8 Holy Spirit Catholic School Phone: (904) 642-9165 Website: www.hscatholicschool.com Grades Served: Pre- K – 8 Jacksonville Adventist Academy Phone: (904) 268-2433 Website: www.jaxaa.org Grades Served: Pre-K – 8
Discovery Montessori School Phone: (904) 247-4577 Website: www.dmsonline.org Grades Served: Pre-K – 6
Jacksonville Christian Academy Phone: (904) 783-2818 Grades Served: 1 – 12
Eagle’s View Academy Phone: (904) 786 -1411 Website: www.evajax.com Grades Served: K-5 – 12
Jacksonville Country Day School Phone: (904) 641-6644 Website: www.jcds.com Grades Served: Pre-K – 6
Ephesus Junior Academy Phone: (904) 765-3225 Website: www.ephesusjunioracademy.org Grades Served: K – 8
Joshua Christian Academy Phone: (904) 388-2227 Website: www.jcfc.theconnextion.net/jca Grades Served: VPK – 12
Episcopal School of Jacksonville Phone: (904) 396-5751 Website: www.esj.org Grades Served: 6 – 12 24 www.ExitRealEstateGallery.com
Little Country Day School Phone: (904) 757-8200 Website: www.littlecountryschool.com Grades Served: Pre-K – 12
Martin J. Gottlieb Day School Phone: (904) 268-4200 (ext. 148) Website: www.mjgds.org Grades Served: Pre-K – 8 Millennial Christian School Phone: (904) 772-6400 Grades Served: K – 11 Montessori Tides School Phone: (904) 241-1139 Website: www.montessoritides.com Grades Served: Pre-K – 3 New Beginnings Christian Academy Phone: (904) 786-3178 Website: www.nbca.nbccjax.org Grades Served: K – 12 New Leaf School for Change Phone: (904) 246-9100 Website: www.newleafschool.com Grades Served: 1 – 12 The Noble School Phone: (904) 803-3260 Website: www.nobleschooljax.org Grades Served: 6 – 12 Old Plank Christian Academy Phone: (904) 783-4888 Website: www.oprbc.org/school Grades Served: K – 12 Parsons Christian Academy Phone: (904) 745-4588 Website: www.pclions.org Grades Served: Pre-K – 12 The Potter’s House Christian Academy Phone: (904) 786-0028 Website: www.phcalions.org Grades Served: K-3 – 12 Promise Land Schools Phone: (904) 268-2422 Website: www.promiselandschools.org Grades Served: Pre-K – 7 Providence School Phone: (904) 223-5270 Website: www.prov.org Grades Served: Pre-K – 12 Resurrection Parish Catholic School Phone: (904) 744-1266 Website: www.resurrectionschooljax.com Grades Served: Pre-K – 8 Riverside Presbyterian Day School Phone: (904) 353-5511 Website: www.rpds.com Grades Served: Pre-K – 6 Sacred Heart Catholic School Phone: (904) 771-5800 Website: www.sacredheartcatholicjax.com Grades Served: Pre-K – 8
EDUCATION
San Jose Catholic School Phone: (904) 733-2313 Website: www.sanjosecatholicschool.com Grades Served: Pre-K2 – 8 San Jose Episcopal Day School Phone: (904) 733-0352 Website: www.sjeds.org Grades Served: Pre-K3 – 6 St. Joseph Catholic School Phone: (904) 268-6688 Website: www.stjosephcs.org Grades Served: Pre-K – 8 St. Mark’s Episcopal Day School Phone: (904) 388-2632 Website: www.stmarksdayschool.org Grades Served: Pre-K – 6 St. Matthew’s Catholic School Phone: (904) 387-4401 Website: www.stmatthewscs.com/home Grades Served: Pre-K – 8 St. Patrick Catholic School Phone: (904) 768-6323 Website: www.stpatrickjacksonville.org/school Grades Served: Pre-K3 – 8 St. Paul’s Catholic School Phone: (904) 249-5934 Website: www.stpaulscatholicschool.com Grades Served: Pre-K – 8 St. Pius V Catholic School Phone: (904) 354-2613 Website: www.stpiusjax.com Grades Served: Pre-K – 8 Temple Christian Phone: (904) 778-8655 Website: www.templechristian.net Grades Served: K – 12 Trinity Christian Academy Phone: (904) 596-2400 Website: www.tcajax.org Grades Served: Pre-K3 – 12 University Christian School Phone: (904) 737-6330 Website: www.ucsjax.com Grades Served: Pre-K3 – 12 Victory Christian Academy Phone: (904) 764-7781 Website: www.vcasoldiers.com Grades Served: Pre-K – 12 West Meadows Baptist Academy Phone: (904) 786-2712 Website: www.wmbcjax.org/academy.html Grades Served: K – 12 Exceptional Student Education: Duval County Public Schools Exceptional Education and Student Services Phone: (904) 348-7800 Website: www.duvalschools.org Grades Served: Pre-K – 12
Top Five Largest Four-Year Private Colleges & Universities 1. Jacksonville University - www.ju.edu 2. Flagler College - www.flagler.edu 3. Edward Waters - www.ewc.edu 4. Jones College - www.jones.edu 5. University of Phoenix – North Florida Campus - www.phoenix.edu/campus-locations/fl/northflorida-campus/north-florida-campus
Community and State Colleges: Florida State College at Jacksonville Phone: (904) 633-8100 (Downtown) (904) 381-3400 (Kent) (904) 766-6500 (North) (904) 646-2111 (South) Website: www.fscj.edu Universities: University of North Florida Phone: (904) 620-1000 Website: www.unf.edu
St. Johns County Education St. Johns County School District contains a highly successful school system. St. Johns County Schools have ranked No. 1 in the state of Florida out of 67 districts in total FCAT points since 2009. The county is one of only five school districts in the state to be named a Grade A district for 10 consecutive years. Students in St. Johns County enjoy programs that are geared toward providing them the tools to succeed in post-graduation education and in life. Public Schools: St. Johns County School District Phone: (904) 547-7500 Website: www.stjohns.k12.fl.us Grades Served: K – 12 Homeschool: Homeschool Information in St. Johns County Phone: (904) 547-8084 Website: www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/homeeducation Grades Served: K – 12 Florida Virtual School: Phone: (800) 374-1430 Website: www.flvs.net Grades Served: K – 12 Private Schools: Accotink Academy by the Sea Phone: (904) 273-4267 Website: www.accotinkacademybythesea.com Grades Served: Pre-K – 1 Beacon of Hope Christian School Phone: (904) 797-6996 Website: www.beaconeagles.net Grades Served: Pre-K – 12 The Bolles School Phone: (904) 256-5030 Website: www.bolles.org Grades Served: Pre-K – 12
Cathedral Parish School Phone: (904) 824-2861 Website: www.thecathedralparishschool.org Grades Served: K – 8 Matanzas Christian Academy Phone: (904) 794-1623 Website: www.matanzasacademy.com Grades Served: K – 12 Palmer Catholic Academy Phone: (904) 543-8515 Website: www.pcapvb.org Grades Served: Pre-K4 – 8 San Juan Del Rio Catholic School Phone: (904) 287-8081 Website: www.sjdrparish.org Grades Served: Pre-K – 8 St. John’s Academy Phone: (904) 824-9224 Website: www.stjohnsacademy.com Grades Served: K – 8 St. Joseph Academy Catholic High School Phone: (904) 824-0431 Website: www.sjaweb.org Grades Served: 9 – 12 Turning Point Christian Academy Phone: (904) 824-0744 Website: www.tpcalvary.com/565801 Grades Served: Pre-K – 8 Victory Preparatory School Phone: (904) 810-0535 Website: www.victoryprep.org Grades Served: K – 12 Exceptional Student Education: Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind Phone: (904) 827-2200 Website: www.fsdb.k12.fl.us Grades Served: Pre-K – 12 St. Johns County School District Exceptional Student Education Phone: (904) 547-7672 Website: www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/ese Grades Served: Pre-K – 12 Community and State Colleges: St. Johns River State College Phone: (904) 808-7400 Website: www.sjrstate.edu
www.ExitRealEstateGallery.com
25
MEDICAL
OUTSTANDING HEALTH CARE
Whether you are looking for highly trained specialists, urgent care or a general practitioner, the First Coast medical community has you and your loved ones covered. Northeast Florida’s population has grown substantially over the past decade. In 2014, Jacksonville alone had the largest population gain of any Florida city, officially making it the 12th most populous city in the country. Fortunately, the medical community has made great strides to keep up with this growth. Since 2000, half a dozen hospitals and more than 50 urgent care and outpatient treatment centers have broken ground in the area. Baptist Health in particular has made its outstanding care more accessible by expanding into Clay and St. Johns counties. Below are some of the hospitals and treatment centers that work hard to keep the First Coast (and its visitors!) healthy.
Clay County
Baptist Clay Medical Campus provides exceptional health care to residents of Fleming Island. The campus features a freestanding emergency center, an outpatient care center, and diagnostic and imaging services. In 2013, Baptist Clay partnered with Wolfson Children’s Hospital to open a specialty pediatric center. The Wolfson Children’s Specialty Center provides services ranging from cardiology and rehabilitation to orthopedics and digital imaging.
Orange Park Medical Center, located in the heart of Orange Park, is one of Clay County’s oldest full-service acute care hospitals. In 2015, OPMC became the first hospital in the region to bring a new treatment option, the Diamondback 360® Coronary Orbital Atherectomy System, to treat patients with plaque buildup in their arteries. The facility has also recently added a brand new pediatric intensive care unit as well as a pediatric inpatient unit, a pediatric ER and 10 ER treatment rooms.
St. Vincent’s Medical Center, located near Middleburg, opened in 2013 and has quickly made a name for itself as one of U.S. News & World Report’s “Best Hospitals” in the metro Jacksonville area and the state. St. Vincent’s Medical Center is part of the larger St. Vincent’s HealthCare community, which expands to Clay and Duval counties. It is also affiliated with Ascension Health, one of the world’s largest Catholic health systems. St. Vincent’s Medical Center is making great strides in cardiac care—roughly 20,000 cardiovascular procedures are performed at their facility every year—and their staff is also working hard to improve the detection and treatment of breast cancer on the First Coast. Their breast health center provides women in Clay County with digital mammography, breast
26
www.ExitRealEstateGallery.com
ultrasounds, minimally invasive biopsies, breast MRIs and bone densitometry. Their mobile mammography unit travels around both Duval and Clay counties, providing an additional 3,000 women access to mammogram screenings. In 2015, St. Vincent’s HealthCare announced its plan to expand its Clay County medical center by adding maternity and women’s services, 30 extra inpatient beds and 13 treatment rooms in the emergency department. Construction is expected to begin in 2016.
Duval County
Duval County is home to some of the region’s most prestigious medical centers. Perhaps the most nationally and internationally recognized hospital in Jacksonville, Mayo Clinic’s medical practitioners combine clinical practice, education and research in their attempt to provide patients with the best possible care. Based out of Rochester, Minnesota, Mayo Clinic first established its presence on the First Coast in 1986. In 2008, Mayo Clinic opened a 650,000square-foot hospital at its San Pablo Road campus. This teaching hospital specializes in a variety of programs, ranging from endocrinology to sports medicine. Mayo Clinic also has the nation’s leading liver transplant program. With more than 40 medical and surgical specialties, a staff of 470 highly trained physicians and scientists, and 322 residents and fellows, it is no surprise that Mayo Clinic’s awardwinning facilities attract patients from all over the world.
Located in the heart of Downtown, Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville has been recognized multiple times for providing patients with some of the state’s best doctors, nurses and overall care. This center is also home to the region’s most distinguished heart and children’s hospitals. Baptist Heart Hospital serves as the only freestanding center for heart and vascular care and treatment in the area. In 2014, U.S. News & World Report ranked Baptist Heart among the five best hospitals in Florida. The equally prestigious Wolfson Children’s Hospital serves as the region’s largest
children’s hospital. The hospital strives to promote a heavy focus on patient- and family-centered care by integrating children and their families into every aspect of their operations. Nemours Children’s Specialty Care, a partner of Wolfson Children’s Hospital located on the banks of the St. Johns River, is also one of Jacksonville’s leaders in pediatrics. One of the biggest non-profit organizations in the country dedicated to children’s health, the pediatric specialists at Nemours are often ranked among the Best Doctors in America® by Best Doctors®, Inc.
Baptist Medical Center South opened its doors in February 2005 in order to better serve residents of both northern St. Johns and southern Duval counties. Since then, the hospital, as well as the number of patients its staff treats annually, has grown substantially. Over the past 10 years, Baptist Medical Center South has acquired a neonatal intensive care unit as well as a state-of-the-art cardiac catheterization lab. Baptist South has since received accreditation as a chest pain center and, in 2015, was given the American Heart Association and the American Stroke Association’s Get With the Guidelines® Stroke Gold Plus Quality Achievement Award.
University of Florida Health Jacksonville has made invaluable contributions to the First Coast medical community over the past 10 years. In 2006, the University of Florida opened the UF Proton Therapy Institute on their Jacksonville campus. The first of its kind in the Southeast, the UF Proton Therapy Institute quickly distinguished itself as one of the top 10 treatment centers in the world. The institute uses proton therapy, a form of treatment in which a beam of protons is used to accurately target diseased tissue, to treat cancers of the breast, lung, prostate and eye, among others. More than 6,000 patients have received proton therapy at UF’s state-of-the-art facility since its opening. In 2015, UF Health Jacksonville opened UF Health North, a 210,000- square-foot outpatient medical complex. Construction on their inpatient facility, which will contain a 92-bed hospital wing, is expected to begin in late 2015.
St. Vincent’s Medical Center Southside (formerly St. Luke’s Hospital) is centrally located and treats inpatient, outpatient and emergency care patients in its 313-bed facility. Specialty facilities include their Spine & Brain Institute, total joint replacement program and obstetrics program. St. Vincent’s Medical Center Riverside offers many of the same services as the Southside location. SVMC Riverside includes several award-winning institutes and programs, including the Mary Virginia Terry Cancer Center, the Atrial Fibrillation Institute, St. Vincent’s Center for Orthopedic Excellence and the Josephine H. Bryan Breast Health Center. Memorial Hospital Jacksonville has served Northeast Florida for more than 40 years and has recently been named one of the region’s “Best Hospitals” by U.S. News & World Report. Located off University Boulevard, this 418-bed acute
MEDICAL
care facility employs 800 highly skilled physicians dedicated to providing the community with top-notch health care and services.
St. Johns County
Founded in 1889, Flagler Hospital serves as one of St. Johns County’s oldest and most distinguished hospitals. This private, not-for-profit facility has 335 beds and is widely recognized for its centers of excellence in bariatrics, cancer treatment and cardiac care. Doctors perform more than 275 open heart surgeries annually at Flagler’s Heart Center and have earned the hospital CPC accreditation from the Society of Cardiovascular Patient Care. Flagler is also well known for its quality of patient care. Flagler was the first hospital in Northeast Florida to receive the American Nurses Credentialing Center Magnet hospital award, which recognizes health care organizations all over the country for superior patient care, excellence in nursing, and innovations in nursing practices and training.
In 2012, Memorial Hospital opened a freestanding emergency care center in Julington Creek. This 11,000square-foot ER is open 24 hours a day and contains a kid-friendly pediatrics area.
CLAY COUNTY
DIRECTORY
Baptist Clay Medical Campus 1771 Baptist Clay Drive Fleming Island, FL 32003 (904) 516-1000 www.baptistjax.com/locations/baptist-clay-medical-campus
Orange Park Medical Center 2001 Kingsley Ave. Orange Park, FL 32073 (904) 639-8500 www.orangeparkmedical.com
St. Vincent’s Medical Center Clay County 1670 St. Vincent’s Way Middleburg, FL 32068 (904) 602-1000 www.jaxhealth.com/locations DUVAL COUNTY
Baptist Heart Hospital 800 Prudential Drive Jacksonville, FL 32207 (904) 202-2000 www.baptistjax.com/locations/baptist-heart-hospital
www.ExitRealEstateGallery.com
27
MEDICAL
Baptist Medical Center Beaches 1350 13th Ave. S. Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 (904) 627-2900 www.baptistjax.com/locations/baptist-medical-centerbeaches Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville 800 Prudential Drive Jacksonville, FL 32207 (904) 202-2000 www.baptistjax.com/locations/baptist-medical-center-jacksonville
Baptist Medical Center South 14550 Old St. Augustine Road Jacksonville, FL 32258 (904) 271-6000 www.baptistjax.com/locations/baptist-medical-center-south Mayo Clinic 4500 San Pablo Road Jacksonville, FL 32224 (904) 953-2000 www.mayoclinic.org/patient-visitor-guide/florida Memorial Hospital Jacksonville 3625 University Blvd. S. Jacksonville, FL 32216 (904) 702-6111 www.memorialhospitaljax.com
Nemours Children’s Specialty Care Jacksonville 807 Children’s Way Jacksonville, FL 32207 (904) 697-3600 www.nemours.org/locations/florida/jacksonville St. Vincent’s Medical Center Riverside 1 Shircliff Way Jacksonville, FL 32204 (904) 308-7300 www.jaxhealth.com/locations
St. Vincent’s Medical Center Southside 4201 Belfort Road Jacksonville, FL 32216 (904) 296-3700 www.jaxhealth.com/locations
UF Health Jacksonville 655 W. 8th St. Jacksonville, FL 32209 (904) 244-0411 www.ufhealthjax.org 28
www.ExitRealEstateGallery.com
UF Health North 15255 Max Leggett Pkwy Jacksonville, FL 32218 (904) 383-1000 www.north.ufhealthjax.org
UF Proton Therapy Institute 2015 N. Jefferson St. Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 588-1800 www.floridaproton.org
Wolfson Children’s Hospital 800 Prudential Drive Jacksonville, FL 32207 (904) 202-2000 www.baptistjax.com/locations/wolfson-childrens-hospital ST. JOHNS COUNTY
Flagler Hospital 400 Health Park Blvd. St. Augustine, FL 32086 (904) 819-5155 www.flaglerhospital.org
Memorial Emergency Center Julington Creek 42 Doctors Village Drive Saint Johns, FL 32259 (904) 230-5000 www.memorialhospitaljax.com/services/emergency-carejulington-creek
SENIOR LIVING
RETIRE IN STYLE
For those seeking an ideal location to spend their golden years, it doesn’t get much better than Florida’s First Coast. Forbes chose Jacksonville as one of their “Top 25 Best Places To Retire” in 2014 and it’s easy to see why: no income tax, beautiful weather, low cost of living and more. While the same can be said of other popular retirement spots in Florida, the First Coast stands out for its quality of recreation and care. The First Coast offers some of the best golf courses in the world. At World Golf Village in St. Augustine you can walk in the footsteps of some of the greats, play courses designed by Hall of Famers like Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus, and enjoy casual dining at Bill Murray’s world famous Caddyshack Restaurant. In addition to golf, the city of Jacksonville boasts more than 57,000 acres of parks, as well as a variety of museums, galleries and world-class spots to shop. Stroll down cobblestone streets in downtown St. Augustine or catch a game at EverBank Field. The possibilities are endless. Jacksonville also provides great resources to aid in its residents’ well-being. In addition to a wide selection of excellent medical facilities—the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville
is one of only three in the country—the First Coast is home to more than 50 nursing homes and retirement communities. With such a low cost of living—Jacksonville ranks lower than the state and national average—you can choose the community that matches your lifestyle within close proximity to your health care provider. Enjoy morning walks through a grove of ancient oaks or try fishing every month of the year; whatever your interests are, the First Coast has a home waiting for you.
Senior Centers by County
Clay Green Cove Springs Senior Center - 904-284-5977 604 Walnut St., Green Cove Springs, FL 32043 Orange Park Senior Center - 904-284-5977 414 Stowe Ave., Orange Park, FL 32073 Shepherd’s Center - 904-296-5315 2105 Park Ave., Orange Park, FL 32273
www.ExitRealEstateGallery.com
29
SENIOR LIVING
Weigler Senior Center - 904-291-3520 3916 Section St., Middleburg, FL 32068
William Beam Senior Center - 352-473-7121 125 N. Commercial Circle, Keystone Heights, FL 32656
Duval Arlington Senior Citizens Center - 904-723-6142 1078 Rogero Road, Jacksonville, FL 32211
Baldwin Senior Center - 904-266-9938 850 Center St. N., Baldwin, FL 32234
Bennie Furlong Beaches Senior Center - 904-241-3796 281 19th Ave. S., Jacksonville, FL 32250 Charlie T. Joseph Senior Center - 904-768-4762 6943 Buffalo Ave., Jacksonville, FL 32208 Clanzel T. Brown Senior Center - 904-764-8752 4757 Moncrief Road, Jacksonville, FL 32209 Hammond Senior Center - 904-786-8554 3312 W. 12th St., Jacksonville, FL 32254
J.S. Johnson Senior Center - 904-630-0948 1112 Jackson St., Jacksonville, FL 32204
Jewish Family & Community Services - 904-448-1933 6261 Dupont Station Court E., Jacksonville, FL 32217 Lane Wiley Senior Center - 904-783-6589 6710 Wiley Road, Jacksonville, FL 32210
Leroy D. Clemons Senior Center - 904-693-4918 55 N. Jackson Ave., Jacksonville, FL 32220 Lincoln Villa Senior Center - 904-765-2654 7866 New Kings Road, Jacksonville, FL 32219
Longbranch Senior Center - 904-630-0893 4110 Franklin St., Jacksonville, FL 32206
Louis Dinah Senior Center - 904-630-0728 1805 Flag St., Jacksonville, FL 32209 Mandarin Senior Center - 904-262-7309 3848 Hartley Road, Jacksonville, FL 32257
Mary L. Singleton Senior Citizens Center - 904-630-0995 150 E. First St., Jacksonville, FL 32206
Maxville Senior Center - 904-289-7157 18065 Pennsylvania Ave., Jacksonville, FL 32234
Moncrief Senior Center - 904-764-0330 5713 Teeler Ave., Jacksonville, FL 32208
Mount Carmel Gardens - 904-733-6696 5846 Mount Carmel Terrace, Jacksonville, FL 32216 30
www.ExitRealEstateGallery.com
Did You Know?
• There are 4.2 million seniors living in Florida • Population in Florida Aged 60+: 4,157,824 • Retirement is the second largest industry in Florida, after tourism • Clay County Population 65+: 13.7% • Duval County Population 65+, 2013: 12.4% • St. Johns County Population 65+, 2013: 17.6% Neptune Beach Senior Activity Center - 904-270-1688 2004 Forest Ave., Neptune Beach, FL 32266
Oceanway Senior Center - 904-696-4331 12215 Sago Ave. W., Jacksonville, FL 32218
Riverview Senior Center - 904-765-7511 9620 Water St., Jacksonville, FL 32208
Wallace Small Senior Center - 904-630-0724 1083 Line St., Jacksonville, FL 32209
Woodland Acres Center - 904-630-0928 8200 Kona Ave., Jacksonville, FL 32211
St. Johns St. Johns County Coastal Community Center 904-209-3647 180 Marine St., St. Augustine, FL 32084
THE PLAYERS Community Senior Center 904-209-0346 175 Landrum Lane, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
Trout Creek Community Center & Park 904-209-0348 6795 Collier Road, Orangedale, FL 32092
BUSINESS
TOP 5 EMPLOYERS by INDUSTRY Financial Services: 1. Bank of America Merrill Lynch www.bankofamerica.com 2. Florida Blue - www.bcbsfl.com 3. Citibank - www.online.citibank.com 4. JPMorgan Chase - www.jpmorganchase.com 5. Wells Fargo - www.wellsfargo.com
Health and Life Sciences: 1. Baptist Health - www.baptistjax.com 2. Mayo Clinic - www.mayoclinic.org 3. St. Vincent’s Medical Center – Riverside www.jaxhealth.com 4. UF Health - www.ufhealthjax.org 5. VISTAKON Johnson & Johnson Vision Care www.jnjvc.com
Logistics: 1. CSX Corporation - www.csx.com 2. Bi-Lo Holdings - www.segrocers.com/Pages/Home.aspx 3. Ring Power www.ringpower.com/locations/jacksonville-rplt.aspx 4. JM Family Enterprise/SE Toyota Distributors www.jmfamily.com 5. Crowley Maritime Corporation - www.crowley.com Aviation and Aerospace: 1. Fleet Readiness Center SE - www.navair.navy.mil 2. Northrop Grumman - www.northropgrumman.com 3. Flightstar - www.flightstarjax.com 4. Unison Industries - www.unisonindustries.com 5. Logistics Services International (LSI) - www.lsijax.com
Advanced Manufacturing: 1. Fleet Readiness Center SE - www.navair.navy.mil 2. VISTAKON Johnson & Johnson Vision Care www.jnjvc.com 3. Ring Power www.ringpower.com/locations/jacksonville-rplt.aspx 4. Georgia Pacific Corporation, Palatka - www.gp.com 5. Swisher International - www.swisher.com
Information Technology: 1. Bank of America Merrill Lynch www.bankofamerica.com 2. Mayo Clinic - www.mayoclinic.org 3. CSX Corporation - www.csx.com 4. UF Health - www.ufhealthjax.org 5. AT&T - www.att.com/local/florida/jacksonville
Information courtesy of JAXUSA (http://jaxusa.org/doing-business-here/top-employers)
www.ExitRealEstateGallery.com
31
BUSINESS Business Booms Northern Florida’s metropolitan area has seen rapid expansion in both population and business in the last decade. While population has grown 20 percent, business has grown even faster with a 50 percent increase. This growth has not gone unnoticed. In 2015, Jacksonville earned Forbes esteemed No. 2 “City With the Most Vibrant Employment Scene.” With local colleges and universities as well as an ever-growing population, companies love the easy access to a skilled workforce available in Northeast Florida. The region is home to three Fortune 500 companies and has a thriving small business community. With the cost of living below the national average and plans to expand in communities all over the region, Northeast Florida has a bright business future ahead.
32
www.ExitRealEstateGallery.com
BUSINESS
BUSINESS and TECHNOLOGY
Trailblazing Technology According to JaxUSA, information technology employs more than 12,000 people in the Northeast Florida area. The region’s information technology industry is comprised of independent software developers, corporate IT operations and telecommunications infrastructure for major financial firms, health care providers, insurers and global logistics companies. Leaders in the industry include Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Mayo Clinic, CSX and AT&T, as well as many other companies from big businesses to small, locally owned operations. Those looking for an exciting career in technology will find opportunities in diverse occupations including computer programming, software design and computer facilities management. The health care industry is a key player in Northeast Florida’s business growth with major providers including Baptist Health, which has six health care facilities in the region, Mayo Clinic, St. Vincent’s HealthCare and UF Health. This wealth of facilities has led to a demand for health care professionals and an increase in innovative technology in the area.
Entrepreneurial Opportunity The Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce, known as JAX Chamber, is committed to helping small businesses and entrepreneurs grow their businesses. The JAX Chamber’s Entrepreneurial Growth Division provides mentoring, education, consulting and networking opportunities to advance the success of entrepreneurs at every stage of business development. The Small Business Center, a department of the JAX Chamber, provides entrepreneurs with the critical skills needed to start and grow a business, and includes programs created to support women and minority business owners through the chamber’s entrepreneur division. The area is also supported by local residents on a mission to “GoLo.” Customers who GoLo make the decision to patronize locally owned, locally operated businesses in Jacksonville's historic urban core neighborhoods. With a wide variety of resources and an increasing market, Jacksonville is the perfect city for entrepreneurs.
Downtown Expansion Downtown Jacksonville is a business hub in the region. It is home to 7.3 million square feet of office space, more than 1,100 businesses (including three Fortune 500 headquarters and several major company headquarters) and more than 49,000 employees. Downtown and the surrounding area are continuing to grow with many expansion projects completed within the last year, including the new shopping center Brooklyn Station, which features a specialty grocery store, a gourmet Popsicle shop and several restaurants. With plans for exciting developments including adding more housing, shopping,
dining and an improved sports complex, Downtown Jacksonville is continuing to grow and thrive.
Employment Opportunities More than 80 companies have national or divisional headquarters in Northeast Florida. Headquarters are relocating to the area because of the low cost of living as well as amenities such as beautiful beaches and mild winters. Jacksonville has four Fortune 1000 and three Fortune 500 company headquarters, more than any other city in Florida. Senior Vice President and General Manager of Crowley Maritime Corporation John Hourihan says, "Doing business anywhere in the world requires a dependable, seamless and highly efficient transport and logistics network. We have found that here in Jacksonville. The city’s strategic location, infrastructure and business climate helps us excel as one of the world’s foremost marine solutions, transportation and logistics services providers." One of the biggest drivers of the area's increased manufacturing, logistics and distribution growth is Jacksonville's port, JAXPORT, which is the nation’s fourth fastest growing import port as well as the No. 1 vehicle export port in the U.S. Since 2010, Jacksonville’s unemployment rate has slowly decreased. As of April 2015, Jacksonville’s employment rate was 5.5 percent, which is inline with the national average, and local officials are optimistic that this rate will continue to go down as the city expands. Northeast Florida is a growing and diverse business region. Whether residents are looking for opportunities to work for growing companies, or companies are looking to expand their skilled workforce, Northeast Florida is the perfect place to live and work. www.ExitRealEstateGallery.com
33
ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT
FIRST COAST FUN
located in Downtown Jacksonville, vividly brings Northeast Florida’s cultural and ecological history alive and is appealing to visitors of all ages. MOSH also features daily science shows, live animal demonstrations and planetarium programs. Children are sure to enjoy MOSH’s KidSpace, an interactive exhibit that combines learning with playtime.
Northeast Florida’s music and entertainment scene is as eclectic as it is enjoyable. Jacksonville is home to some of the region’s best venues, including the Veterans Memorial Arena, Freebird Live, Ponte Vedra Concert Hall and the historic Florida Theatre. These venues feature everything from jazz to rock and blues acts. Lovers of classical music will want to check out the Times-Union Center for the Performing Arts. Here, visitors can enjoy the melodic sounds of the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra or experience opera, ballet, gospel and Broadway productions. Located further south, the St. Augustine Amphitheatre has served as the First Coast’s premier outdoor venue since 1965. Capable of holding up to 4,100 people, this venue often features live music, movie screenings and a variety of seasonal events.
The area’s many festivals beautifully combine art and commerce, making for some unforgettable experiences. The Springing the Blues Festival has succeeded in delighting Jacksonville Beach residents and visitors for more than 25 years. This three-day event, which takes place at the historic Seawalk Pavilion, features national, regional and local musicians, and attracts more than 150,000 fans. Other notable music festivals include the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Florida Country Superfest, the Big Ticket and Welcome to Rockville.
Looking for something to do? Whether you love live music, fine arts, theater or sports, there is something to suit everyone’s arts and entertainment preference on the First Coast.
Art and Culture Art and culture abound in the Greater Jacksonville area. The Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens, located in historic Riverside, holds a collection of 5,000 works spanning 8,000 years. The Cummer’s breathtaking gardens overlook the St. Johns River and provide a perfect location for events. If your interests are more modern, head to Downtown Jacksonville and check out the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA). MOCA houses one of the largest collections of modern art in the Southeast.
The Jacksonville area is also home to some of the region’s most innovative history museums. The Ritz Theatre and Museum, Mandarin Museum & Historical Society, and Jacksonville Fire Museum will certainly pique the interests of local history buffs. Interested in the wonders of the natural world? The Museum of Science and History (MOSH), 34
www.ExitRealEstateGallery.com
The Greater Jacksonville area is also home to a variety of exciting, family-friendly cultural festivals. The Jacksonville World of Nations celebration allows visitors to explore the world without having to leave Florida. More than 30 countries are represented along with their food, dance, music and crafts. Jacksonville also hosts the the Great Atlantic Seafood & Music Festival, as well as One Spark, a five-day crowd funding event that attracts the area’s most talented innovators and entrepreneurs. Those looking to experience the region’s southern roots should head down to St. Johns County. Each year, St. Augustine hosts the Rhythm and Ribs festival, a three-day jamboree of music, dance, crafts and food.
If your tastes lean more towards the dramatic, make sure to suspend your disbelief at one of the area’s fine theaters. The Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ) Artist Series brings Broadway productions to both the Times-Union Center and the Nathan H. Wilson Center for the Arts. The Alhambra Dinner Theatre, voted “Best Local Theater” and “Best Place to Take Your Parents” by Folio Weekly in 2015, is a must for food and entertainment lovers. The oldest continually operating dinner theater in the U.S., the Alhambra has hosted productions of some of the country’s most beloved plays and musicals.
ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT
Sports The Jacksonville area offers many choices for the spectator sports fan. With professional and semi-professional sports teams and events available almost every weekend, there is a plethora of fun activities available.
If you feel like indulging in America’s favorite pastime, you can bring your friends and family to Bragan Field for a Jacksonville Suns game. Bragan Field can hold up to 11,000 spectators, making it a prime destination for First Coast minor league baseball fans. Prefer basketball? The American Basketball Association’s Jacksonville Giants will be your hometown team.
Soccer fans can gather their family and friends and head to the pitch to watch the Armada FC, Jacksonville’s North American Soccer League team. Join in the excitement as everyone cheers and supports our newest professional sports team.
If golf is your game, get your tickets early for THE PLAYERS Championship, played every May at Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra. Since 1974, this tournament has attracted the best players in the world and offers the largest winner’s purse on the PGA Tour.
Football fanatics bleed black, teal and gold every fall as the Jacksonville Jaguars take on some of the country’s top NFL teams. Their home stadium, EverBank Field, is located in Downtown Jacksonville and draws close to 60,000 fans on game days. Before the games, tailgaters can be found grilling in the parking lot or getting their faces painted in the Pepsi Pavilion. Exit Real Estate Gallery is a Proud Partner of the Jacksonville Jaguars. Jacksonville is also home to the Sharks, a popular Arena Football League team that plays at Veterans Memorial Arena. Exit Real Estate Gallery is a proud Sponsor of the Sharks.
College football fans will enjoy the annual Florida vs. Georgia Football Classic. This sporting event, which takes place at EverBank Field, attracts thousands of fans from all over the Southeast. The weekend’s festivities include tailgating, the Georgia-Florida Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and the Touchdown Showdown. The Touchdown Showdown, presented by Winn Dixie, is the largest free, interactive event of the Florida-Georgia weekend. Here, fans and their families can participate in a multitude of games and activities, and watch the game on a LED jumbo screen.
Regardless of your preferred activity, the Greater Jacksonville area will entice you to experience cultural events and entertainment that you and your friends and family will enjoy and want to participate in again and again.
Top Annual Events Clay County Agricultural Fair www.claycountyfair.org Florida Country Superfest www.floridacountrysuperfest.com Florida vs. Georgia Football Classic www.gatorzone.com Gamble Rogers Music Festival www.gamblerogersfest.org George’s Music Springing the Blues www.springingtheblues.com Great Atlantic Festival www.greatatlanticfestival.com Jacksonville Jazz Festival www.jaxjazzfest.com Northeast Florida Scottish Highland Games & Festival www.neflgames.com One Spark www.onespark.com Rhythm & Ribs www.rhythmandribs.net THE PLAYERS Championship www.tpc.com/sawgrass-the-players-championship World of Nations Celebration www.jaxhappenings.com www.ExitRealEstateGallery.com
35
OUTDOOR RECREATION
THE GOOD LIFE
The First Coast has long been recognized for its stunning beaches and classic Florida charm, but there is an abundance of recreational opportunities that may be overlooked by those simply passing through. With thousands of acres of pristine wildlife preserves and the largest urban park system in the country, there are few places like it. Explore a variety of habitats by hiking one of Northeast Florida’s many winding wildlife trails and possibly catch a glimpse of one of the hundreds of bird species native to the region. Rent a kayak and glide through miles of rivers, creeks and marshes on an ecotour, or take a date down the St. Johns River under the glow of Jacksonville’s urban skyline. Interested in a slower pace? Deep sea fishing is always about a half-hour away, so simply drop a line at one of the many convenient fresh and salt water fishing spots. Golf enthusiasts can walk in the footsteps of legends at World Golf Village or play a course designed by Arnold Palmer himself. With more than 1,220 holes and 70 private and public courses, you can take your pick. An abundance of unique recreational opportunities await all residents of the First Coast, and it doesn’t take much searching to find something just for you. Here are a few local favorites to help you escape the everyday.
Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve 12713 Fort Caroline Road Jacksonville, FL 32225 904 - 641-7155
For those interested in history, a trip to the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve in Duval County is a mustsee. Take a walk into 16th century Florida at the Fort Caroline National Memorial, where a pivotal battle once took place that would decide the fate of the region. Also located in the preserve is Kingsley Plantation, an untouched glimpse at 19th century plantation life. Both parks are open daily and offer tours. With roughly 46,000 acres of land in the preserve, visitors can explore salt marshes, coastal dunes and lush forests all in a single hike.
Big Talbot Island State Park State Road A1A N. Jacksonville, FL 32226 904-251-2320
The perfect refuge for naturalists, the Talbot Islands are the epitome of old Florida wildlife. Explore thick maritime forests or stroll down to the bluffs at Boneyard Beach, where live oaks and cedars have been bleached white by the sun and salty air. Launch a boat from the north end of the island to fish and explore the marshes, or take a guided kayak tour with Kayak Amelia. The assortment of hiking trails lead visitors to every end of the island, through several different types of habitats where coastal wildlife seems entirely undisturbed. This is a photographer’s paradise. 36
www.ExitRealEstateGallery.com
Anastasia State Park 300 Anastasia Park Road St. Augustine, FL 32080 904-461-2033
With a close proximity to historic St. Augustine, Anastasia State Park in St. Johns County offers 1,600 acres of gorgeous scenery and a variety of ecosystems. Take the nature trail through ancient sand dunes or visit the Coquina Quarry, where coquina rock was once mined to construct the nearby Castillo de San Marcos. The park is teeming with animal life, such as dolphins and manatees, while the aforementioned dunes are home to the endangered Anastasia Island beach mouse. Visitors can rent bicycles, kayaks, paddle boards and more on-site, while an abundance of campsites throughout the park offer maximum convenience. Birdwatching, boating and fishing are also popular activities.
OUTDOOR RECREATION
Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens 370 Zoo Parkway Jacksonville, FL 32218 904-757- 4463
Considered one of the First Coast’s premier destinations, Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens is a great attraction for the whole family. With more than 2,000 exotic animals and 1,000 varieties of plants, the Zoo has something for everyone. The Great Apes of the World exhibit includes an assortment of chimpanzees, gorillas and bonobos, an endangered species that lives in captivity in only eight other locations in all of North America. Another notable attraction is the Wild Florida exhibit, where you can see species native to the Sunshine State, like the Florida panther and American alligator. The Zoo is also known for its partnerships with world conservation efforts like the Guyana Conservation Initiative.
Jacksonville Equestrian Center 13611 Normandy Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32221 904-255- 4254
Located off Interstate 295, the Jacksonville Equestrian Center is an 80-acre state-of-the-art facility that hosts multifaceted events including equine shows and competitions, as well as sporting and community events. There are trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding. The center also offers an Olympic sized pool, a public golf course and a gymnasium. More than 400 horse stalls and camping facilities are also available.
Join These Annual Active Events 26.2 with Donna 904-355-7465 www.breastcancermarathon.com Bike MS: PGA TOUR Cycle to the Shore 904-332-6810 http://bikefln.nationalmssociety.org Florida Surfing Championships 904-626-9090 www.floridasurfing.org Gate River Run 904-731-1900 www.gate-riverrun.com Greater Jacksonville Kingfish Tournament 904-251-3011 www.kingfishtournament.com Mug Race 904-264-4094
www.rudderclub.com/mug www.ExitRealEstateGallery.com
37
MILITARY
BASES HAVE POSITIVE IMPACT
The First Coast is home to several military bases that provide invaluable local and national services. In addition to ensuring the safety of U.S. citizens at home and abroad, Naval Air Station Jacksonville (NAS Jax), Naval Station Mayport, Camp Blanding Joint Training Center, Naval Aviation Depot Jacksonville, Marine Corps Blount Island Command and Kings Bay Naval Base have had an overwhelmingly positive impact on the Jacksonville community for more than 75 years. Combined, these military installations currently provide jobs for more than 50,000 active duty, reserve, and civilian men and women while contributing more than $11 billion to Jacksonville’s gross regional product. Located four miles south of downtown, NAS Jax is the largest naval base in the Southeast. Commissioned in 1940, the United States’ entry into World War II accelerated and strengthened NAS Jax’s development as well as its presence on the First Coast. Today, NAS Jax spans 24,629 acres and provides jobs for 19,618 military and civilian personnel. Their spectacular facilities house eight P-8A/P-3C squadrons, three reserve squadrons and four helicopter squadrons. Service men and women are trained in anti-submarine warfare and advanced aviation techniques. Naval Station Mayport’s proximity to inland waterways and the Atlantic Ocean has made it a desirable location for First Coast seafarers for more than 400 years. Commissioned two years after NAS Jax and located just minutes from Jacksonville’s beautiful beaches, Naval Station Mayport currently maintains the third largest naval surface fleet concentration in the United States and employs more than 18,000 military and civilian personnel. In addition to its human inhabitants, its harbor can accommodate up to 32 ships at a time. Mayport is expected to receive eight littoral combat ships by December 2016. The presence of these ships, which are intended to effortlessly navigate close to shore and aid in anti-submarine warfare, are anticipated to bring $200 million into the local economy. In addition to jobs, both NAS Jax and Naval Station Mayport provide military and civilian personnel additional support through access to shopping, dining and a variety of recreational activities. Mayport’s Morale, Welfare and Recreation Department goes above and beyond in providing
38
www.ExitRealEstateGallery.com
service men and women and their families activities such as bowling and bingo. Mayport is also home to the Beachside Community Center and military campgrounds. NAS Jax similarly offers access to an auto skills center, bowling, fishing and a skeet range. Both stations offer patrons child and youth programs that cater to the needs of military parents and children alike. No article regarding military life on the First Coast would be complete without mentioning the sacrifices that our men and women in uniform make every day. Between deployments, irregular hours, and danger at home and abroad, the weight of military life falls on both the troops and their loved ones. EXIT Real Estate Gallery and the First Coast community proudly support and thank all of the courageous men and women who have served and continue to serve our country.