EVO Riverfront debuts renovated Southbank apartments in Jacksonville

EVO Riverfront has opened applications for its newly renovated 185-unit apartment community on the St. Johns River in downtown Jacksonville. The project adds updated amenities, a redesigned exterior and a public mural as the Southbank property targets residents who want waterfront living near major medical centers and the urban core.

Why it matters: - EVO Riverfront adds a refreshed luxury housing option in Jacksonville’s Southbank district, where waterfront access, downtown proximity and transit-friendly urban living can command strong demand. - The renovation upgrades a previously existing apartment building rather than starting from scratch, which can speed availability for renters. - The property is positioned near Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville and Wolfson Children’s Hospital, making it relevant for healthcare workers and nearby commuters.

What happened: - FrontRange Capital Partners completed a renovation of the eight-story, 185-unit apartment building formerly known as Southerly at Southbank. - The property has been reintroduced as EVO Riverfront and is now open for resident applications. - The building sits at 959 Prudential Dr. in Jacksonville’s Southbank neighborhood on the St. Johns River. - FrontRange Capital Partners purchased the property in 2022.

The details: - The renovation focused on modernizing resident amenities, refreshing the exterior and adding a locally inspired public mural along the Southbank Riverwalk. - Project work included a redesigned façade with colors that nod to the St. Johns River. - The building also received new exterior signage. - Interior upgrades included a renovated entry vestibule, lobby, fitness center and dog run. - New sun terraces were added on the pool deck with river views. - FrontRange Capital Partners worked with Jacksonville-based Sweetwater Contractors on the renovation. - FrontRange commissioned the Bridge Muralists, a local artist group, to create a 1,568-square-foot mural facing the riverfront. - The mural highlights Jacksonville flora and fauna, including the jaguar. - EVO Riverfront is accepting applications for studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom and three-bedroom apartments. - Units include modern kitchens, spa-inspired bathrooms, smart home technology, luxury vinyl flooring, in-home washers and dryers and private balconies with available river views. - Shared amenities include a first-floor foyer with mail and package rooms, a fitness center, a games room, a riverfront pool with grilling areas, a 24/7 resident market, a pet run with dog washing stations and a private parking garage with reserved spaces and electric car chargers.

Between the lines: - The project leans into a resort-style pitch, combining waterfront views, pet-friendly features and commuter convenience. - The mural and façade changes signal an effort to connect the property more closely to local identity, not just high-end finishes. - The location next to major hospitals suggests EVO Riverfront may be targeting a mix of medical, downtown and San Marco renters.

What's next: - EVO Riverfront will continue leasing the newly renovated units as the building reestablishes itself in the Southbank market. - The company is promoting the community through more information. - FrontRange Capital Partners will likely use the renovation as a value-add repositioning of the asset in downtown Jacksonville.

The bottom line: - EVO Riverfront is betting that upgraded amenities, riverfront views and a central Jacksonville location will help draw renters to a repackaged Southbank apartment tower.