Florida Construction News staff writer
A 4,500-square-foot community center under construction in Atlantic Beach is set to become a secure, multi-purpose facility with hurricane-hardened features and modern upgrades, city officials said.
Located at 100 W. 1st Street adjacent to Beaches Veterans Memorial Park, the future Marsh Oaks Community Center is undergoing a major transformation. Originally a former assisted living facility, the building is being redesigned as a resilient hub for community services, Recreation & Parks operations, and event space.
Enhancements include:
- Hurricane Hardening: With a $220,000 grant from the Florida Department of Emergency Management’s Hurricane Loss Mitigation Program, the structure is being fortified to withstand severe storms. A 140 mph-rated roof is already in place, with extensive interior bracing tying the walls, roof, and floor together. Impact-resistant doors and windows are expected to be installed by June 20.
- Interior and Exterior Improvements: Once hardening is complete, construction crews will begin interior finishing and exterior beautification, supported by a $500,000 grant from the City of Jacksonville. Conceptual designs highlight a welcoming, flexible space for gatherings and services.
- Parking and Landscaping: A $200,000 Community Development Block Grant will fund the replacement of the current parking area and fencing with a landscaped parking lot designed to blend the center seamlessly with the adjacent Veterans Park.
Purchased by the city in 2024, the building is envisioned as a vital resource for seniors, veterans, and the wider community. It will also support public and private events at Beaches Veterans Memorial Park.
“This project is about more than just renovating a building — it’s about strengthening our community,” said city officials in a statement. “We’re creating a space that is safe, functional, and responsive to the needs of our residents.”
