Developer Merritt Properties has started construction on the third phase of Imeson Landing Business Park in north Jacksonville. The new phase will deliver three shallow-bay light industrial structures across 126,500 square feet, bringing the overall scheme to 392,700 square feet.

Located at Zoo Parkway and Imeson Park Boulevard in Duval County, the build sits opposite the five existing structures, which total 266,200 square feet. The scheme comprises Building 600 at 39,600 square feet, Building 700 at 42,900 square feet, and Building 800 at 44,000 square feet. The facilities offer 16- to 18-foot clear heights alongside 90- to 100-foot truck courts.

Small-bay incubator units measuring 1,650 square feet are being introduced. These turnkey facilities feature two offices, a bathroom, and a climate-controlled warehouse with drive-in access. Construction is slated for completion in the second quarter of 2027. General contractor ARCO/Design Build is managing construction alongside Merritt’s development team. Leasing efforts are led by Pat Franklin of Merritt, alongside Ross Crabtree and Luke Pope of JLL.

Pat Franklin of Merritt Properties’ Jacksonville office said: “Completing Imeson Landing is an exciting milestone for our team, particularly because this was Merritt’s first ground-up development in Jacksonville. Since entering the market, we’ve seen strong demand for well-located, flexible light industrial space that can accommodate businesses at different stages of growth. This phase builds on what has worked well at Imeson while introducing smaller incubator spaces that allow us to serve an even broader range of companies.”

Gary Swatko of Merritt Properties’ Florida office said: “Breaking ground on these three buildings represents the culmination of several years of planning, development and construction at Imeson Landing. Our team has worked closely with ARCO/Design Build throughout each phase to deliver high-quality, functional buildings that meet the needs of Jacksonville’s growing business community and position the park for long-term success.”

Merritt entered Jacksonville in 2021. Work on Imeson Landing started in March 2022, with phase two launching in July 2023 and completing in March 2024. The park won the NAIOP Northeast Florida 2023 New Construction Project of the Year award.

Simultaneously, Merritt is progressing with phase two of its redevelopment at Merritt at Gate Parkway. The firm is converting Buildings 100 and 200 from vacant single-story offices into light industrial spaces, following a Planned Unit Development rezoning approval by the City of Jacksonville.

Pat Franklin said: “The response to the first phase at Gate Parkway has reinforced our confidence in our redevelopment strategy. Converting Buildings 100 and 200 will allow us to accommodate a wider range of light industrial users while continuing the transformation of the property.”