Downtown Vision presented the eighth annual #DT Jax Awards on Nov. 29 at The Lark gallery at 229 N. Hogan St.
Downtown Vision oversees Jacksonville’s nonprofit Business Improvement District. The awards honor people and businesses that “create a vibrant and dynamic 24-hour, pedestrian friendly Downtown,” according to a release.
“Every great Downtown is the result of the hard work of a huge group of dedicated leaders, entrepreneurs, investors and supporters,” said Jake Gordon, CEO of Downtown Vision.
“We created the #DT Jax Awards to celebrate the people and projects who make Downtown Jacksonville a better place.”
The winners were:
• Duan Thompson – Downtown Ambassador of the Year. The award honors the Downtown Ambassador who has done exceptional work.
• Dos Gatos – Small Business of the Year. It recognizes small businesses that enhance the city’s Downtown experience.
• Ruby Beach Brewing – Retail Project of the Year, an award given to a new business that has created a new amenity in downtown.
• Fidelity National Information Services headquarters – Downtown Project of the Year, for a project that has enhanced the economic revitalization of Downtown.
• Jason Hunnicutt – Downtowner of the Year; which distinguishes the person who has demonstrated inspirational leadership.
• Dawn Lockhart – Downtown Achievement Award, which honors a body of work that reinforces Downtown’s importance to the arts, business and urban living in Northeast Florida.
In addition, Robert “Mark” Rimmer was recognized posthumously for 30 years of service as the city’s Downtown parking expert.
He died July 17, 2022, at the age of 66.