Despite the Florida wave pool race picking a winner with The Point set to launch in 2026, Jacksonville made huge strides recently. The run for second place includes projects in Tampa, Panama City, Fort Pierce and elsewhere in The Sunshine State.
Local news outlets reported that the city council approved, via a 17-0 vote, that developers Aventuur would be eligible to receive a tax break of up to $4.6 million. The incentive is called a REV Grant and it’s basically a refund on ad valorem tax revenue (tax based on the value of real estate or personal property) generated by a new development or property enhancement. It can apply to property and tangible personal property, and requires improvements to be made before the refund is provided.
“We’re delighted to have secured a $4.6m REV grant from the City of Jacksonville,” said Rupert Partridge of Aventuur. “The council voted unanimously in favour of the grant.”
Rupert added that construction on the Jacksonville Surf Park should kick off in 2026, ahead of opening to the public in 2028.
Jacksonville worked closely with the developer, approving rezoning of the surf park site. The PARC Group, the Davis family, the Jacksonville City Council, and Mayor Deegan’s Office have all voiced support for the wave pool.
More Developers Need To Do Road Trips Like This
The area’s tourism market draws 22 million people each year, and the company said North Florida’s coastal, outdoor lifestyle and warm climate will appeal to a wide range of future guests.
Aventuur’s Partridge also shared with WavePoolMag that the Aussie group, which included Adrian “Ace” Buchan and Glenn “Micro” Hall, took the opportunity to go on a classic American road trip through the area.
“We spent time in Jacksonville, and travelled to nearby St. Augustine to connect with our project partners and local communities, and to celebrate the surf culture that’s defined in North-East Florida,” said Rupert. “Ace and Micro also surfed fun waves at the iconic Poles in Jacksonville, and at the St. Augustine Pier with local legend and friend, former WSL World Tour surfer Gabe Kling, while renowned local photographer Jimmy Wilson (Jimmicane) documented the trip.”
Rupert added that they also supported the Super Girl Surf Festival in Jacksonville.
“As part of our support, we created a new award – The Inspiring Star Award – which was awarded to two surfers, Jacksonville local Romie Stalnaker, and Leilani McGonagle from Costa Rica, who displayed positivity, perseverance, and passion that inspire others to reach higher.”
The two winners receive “Golden Tickets” to surf pre-opening waves at the Jacksonville Surf Park with their families.
