Riverside Urban Activation Space: A New Opportunity in Downtown Brooklyn
The vibrant Brooklyn area of Downtown is once again buzzing with potential as the Riverside “urban activation space” at the Fidelity National Information Services Inc. (FIS) headquarters is back on the market. This prime location, which was initially slated to become a Pet Paradise resort and day spa, is now open for new leasing opportunities, inviting businesses to reimagine its use.
The Pet Paradise Plans: A Missed Opportunity
In January 2023, Pet Paradise submitted applications for a significant $1.5 million project to establish a pet care center at the FIS headquarters. The ambitious plans included a 6,000-square-foot resort featuring a rooftop play area and various amenities designed for dogs and cats. However, as of September 24, 2023, Brian Franco, Vice President of Real Estate for Pet Paradise, confirmed that the company would not be moving forward with the deal, citing economic considerations as the primary reason for the decision.
Kim Snider, FIS’s Senior Vice President of Corporate Communications, corroborated Franco’s statement, indicating that the space is now available for lease. The initial vision for Pet Paradise included a check-in lobby, grooming and boarding suites, and even a dog-bone-shaped interior pool, all designed to create a welcoming environment for pets and their owners.
The Urban Activation Space: A Community-Centric Vision
The urban activation space, located at 347 Riverside Ave., was developed to serve the community with ground-floor office and retail use. This initiative aimed to enhance the local environment by providing accessible services and amenities. The one-story, 6,000-square-foot extension of the FIS parking garage was designed to foster community engagement and interaction.
The proposed layout for Pet Paradise included a Tiny Town for smaller pets, play yards, and a rooftop area that would serve as a play yard and pool for the resort. The vision was not just about pet care; it was about creating a vibrant community hub where pet owners could gather, socialize, and enjoy the company of their furry friends.
FIS Headquarters: A Beacon of Economic Growth
FIS officially opened its $156 million headquarters in Brooklyn on October 21, 2022. The 12-story office building was a significant investment in the local economy, promising to add 500 jobs to the existing workforce of 1,216 employees in Jacksonville. The project received substantial support, including $29.9 million in city and state incentives, underscoring the importance of FIS to the region’s economic landscape.
The headquarters features an eight-level parking garage with 1,647 spaces, seamlessly connected to the office tower. This modern facility not only enhances FIS’s operational capabilities but also serves as a catalyst for further development in the area.
Pet Paradise: A Legacy of Care
Founded in Jacksonville 22 years ago, Pet Paradise has grown to encompass 61 locations across 11 states. The company’s commitment to providing high-quality pet care services has made it a trusted name in the industry. With offerings that include dog and cat boarding, grooming services, veterinary care, and doggy day camps, Pet Paradise has established itself as a leader in pet hospitality.
Despite the setback at the FIS headquarters, Pet Paradise continues to thrive, with several locations and a hospital in Northeast Florida. Their dedication to pet care remains unwavering, and the company is poised for future growth.
Looking Ahead: New Opportunities Await
With the Pet Paradise plans now shelved, the Riverside urban activation space presents a blank canvas for prospective tenants. Businesses looking to establish a presence in this bustling area have the chance to create innovative concepts that align with the community’s needs and desires. Whether it’s a new retail venture, a dining experience, or another service-oriented business, the possibilities are endless.
As the market for this unique urban space opens up, it invites entrepreneurs and visionaries to reimagine what this prime location can offer. The Riverside area is not just a place to work; it’s a community waiting to be enriched by new ideas and experiences.
In conclusion, the Riverside urban activation space at FIS headquarters represents a significant opportunity for growth and development in Downtown Brooklyn. As the community looks forward to new ventures, the potential for innovation and engagement remains bright.