Riverside Avondale Board Supports BID for 5 Points Safety and Business Revitalization

The Neighborhoods, Community Services, Public Health and Safety Committee of Jacksonville convened on August 18, 2025, to discuss pressing issues affecting the 5 Points area, particularly the proposed Business Improvement District (BID) legislation aimed at revitalizing the neighborhood.

Several speakers voiced strong support for the BID, emphasizing its potential to enhance safety, cleanliness, and overall community engagement. A member of the Riverside Avondale Preservation Board highlighted the collaborative efforts of local business owners and managers to restore the area to its former vibrancy. They expressed optimism that the BID would provide the necessary resources to achieve this goal.

Dr. Troy Mack, a local nonprofit leader, echoed these sentiments, advocating for the BID as a grassroots initiative that would foster a safer environment for residents and businesses alike. He underscored the importance of transparency and community involvement in the BID's implementation, suggesting it could serve as a platform for better coordination among local stakeholders.

Natalie Worth, a manager at 5 Points Central, shared her firsthand experiences of the challenges faced by businesses in the area. She detailed alarming incidents of harassment, vandalism, and public disorder that have plagued the neighborhood, contributing to the closure of several small businesses. Worth criticized the city's response to these issues, noting long wait times for police assistance and a lack of effective support for local businesses. She argued that the BID would be crucial in funding essential services to improve safety and the overall appeal of 5 Points.

The discussions highlighted a growing concern among community members about the deterioration of the 5 Points area and the urgent need for action. The proposed BID legislation is seen as a vital step toward reversing this trend and ensuring the neighborhood's future success. The committee's next steps will likely involve further deliberation on the BID proposal and its implications for the community.