about the rail yard district

Just west of downtown Jacksonville lies the Rail Yard District (the “District”), a historic stretch shaped by more than a century of life along the tracks. Spanning 4.5 square miles, the District is bounded by:

• I-10 to the south

• I-95 to the east

• Kings Road to the north

• Huron Street to the west

The District carries a deep Jacksonville story—one shaped by the steady rhythm of the rails, the bustle of commerce, and generations of community life. Since the mid‑1800s, trains have defined this corner of the city, delivering workers, goods, and opportunity along the tracks. It’s from this long rail‑driven legacy that the district proudly takes its name.

a thriving mix of businesses & neighborhoods

Today, the district is home to businesses generating over $300 billion in economic activity, alongside long‑established neighborhoods where people still live and work within sight of the rails. As one of Jacksonville’s oldest commercial and residential areas, it remains a rare place where history, industry, and community continue to run on parallel tracks.

Tucked within this historic corridor is the Jacksonville Farmers Market, the oldest continuously operating farmers market in Florida, where vendors have gathered for nearly a century to sell fresh produce, local goods, and the flavors that have fed the city for generations. Just beyond the tracks stands Edward Waters, Florida’s first historically Black college and a cornerstone of education, resilience, and cultural pride since 1866. Together, these landmarks reflect the district’s enduring spirit—a place where history isn’t just remembered, but still lived every day.

In recent years, the district has become a focal point for redevelopment and innovation.

• Projects like Dennis + Ives are transforming former industrial sites — such as the Caribbean Cold Storage building — into creative office space, restaurants, breweries, and event venues.

• These efforts aim to honor the district’s industrial roots while creating new opportunities for community engagement, arts, and commerce.

This revitalization aligns with broader citywide initiatives, including the Emerald Trail and McCoy’s Creek restoration.