Did you know the area of northeast Florida we call Nassau County is one of the oldest counties in Florida with a fascinating history that dates back to the mid-16th century? Being the only county in the U.S. that has been occupied by the French, Spanish, British, and Americans, Revolutionary War and Civil War action, Nassau County tells the outstanding story of industry, agriculture, and life in early days of Florida.
We are proud to be situated in such a remarkable locale – here’s a glimpse of the old days of Nassau County.
In 1562 the French took first possession of Nassau County inhabited by Native Americans, but only for a short time. Spanish explorer Pedro Menendez drove out the French in 1565. Under the occupation of Menendez, the Spanish influence dominated the island and mainland Nassau County throughout the 16th and 17th centuries, which was the first of two Spanish colonial periods in Florida history.
Florida was transferred to the British by the Treaty of Paris in 1763 along with all of the east coast. Under the rule of the British, they brought the plantation system that would survive for nearly 100 years and a program of development and construction to Nassau County.
By 1783, Florida had again transferred back to the Spanish re-establishing a land-grant system and plantation system and fostering the first real land boom. With the beginning of pirates and slave runners, Amelia Island and Fernandina became a slave smuggling port with the rapid growth of population and sailing vessels anchored in the harbor. In 1821, Florida was ceded to the United States and Nassau County became a part of Duval County until 1824 when Nassau County would break away.
The American Civil War broke out in Charleston harbor in 1861 which, in return, brought a Union invasion of Amelia Island the following year. Union troops commenced destroying the railroads, offices, rolling back and removed the rails up to the mainland. With so many wealthy landowners leaving the area, slaves were released from bondage and scattered to their own settlements such as Franklintown on the south end of Amelia Island.
The significant economic boom began with the paper industry in the late 1930s. Container Corporation of America (today’s WestRock) planted its roots in Fernandina, establishing a paperboard mill, which began production in 1937. This changed the course of history here in Nassau County. Today, WestRock’s Fernandina plant produces 155,000 metric tons of softwood cellulose specialties per year. It contributes $35 million annually to Florida’s wages and salaries and $2 million to Florida’s property and sales taxes. Ranked among the nation’s top 50 exporters, the plant ships products to five continents and 80 ports around the world.
Understanding the significance of Nassau County’s history and nature, today’s settlers value these tributaries for their natural state, rich history and tradition. They appreciate the opportunity to explore these untouched, protected areas with generations to come. As the newest community in Nassau County, Tributary recognizes the history and the importance of preserving this dynamic land, with much of the land being preserved within and around the community. Tributary is where people will celebrate the natural surroundings as part of the community’s vision and design.
It’s a model lifestyle for tomorrow, waiting to be discovered today. The perfect place to call home. Within the 1,550-acre master-planned community, residents will enjoy the outdoor lifestyle, resort-style pool, fitness center and activities at the fun-filled Amenity Center. New modern-rustic homes will be offered from the $300s, interested homebuyers can download their complimentary digital brochure at tributaryfl.com to ensure they are first to learn of any updates as we approach the grand opening of model homes late this summer.
Nassau County is one of the fastest-growing communities in Florida. In other locations, critical services tend to come much later in the process as health care providers wait for critical mass. Here in North Florida, the medical community is leading the way, driving high demand for new homes and facilities for its health care providers. Nassau County is welcoming four new healthcare innovators to the community with open arms – UF Health, Baptist Health, River City Rehabilitation Center, and Memorial Hospital. The expansion of the medical industry is a key component to creating a thriving community in Nassau County, creating both high-paying new jobs and top-notch services for the broader community.
UF Health is the region’s premier academic health center hub for clinical research and unique provider of advanced patient care leading the industry as a leader in the education of health professionals. On December 6th the new UF Health medical office opened its doors in Nassau County! According to UF Health, this is “the first step in a strategic health alliance between UF Health, the University of Florida, and Raydient Places + Properties offering high-quality health care for residents in the surrounding communities.” The building includes an urgent care center, family medicine, imaging, lab services, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, psychiatry, and adult and pediatric dentistry. The residents of Nassau County will be among the fortunate members to receive a wide range of high-quality health care services and job opportunities.
Baptist Health is also under development in Nassau County. This new hospital and wellness facilities will provide a full spectrum of in and outpatient services and 24-hour emergency care. As a result of tireless commitment of trained doctors and nurses, Baptist Health was recognized as the only system in North Florida to receive a Magnet recognition, a program that presents attraction and retention of professional nurses. The new Baptist Health will be fully integrated within Baptist Health hospital system delivering quality care and adding convenience to the residents of North Jacksonville.
This newly constructed rehabilitation center will serve the senior residents of North Florida starting in March 2020. The new center consists of 116 dually certified beds in 81,000 square feet and spans 10 acres in size. Services will include three gyms and a therapy courtyard with an emphasis on physical, speech and occupational therapy. An oxygen delivery system will be installed in several rooms. The new facility features an ultra-modern design and state of the art equipment allowing the facility to provide residents unparalleled short-term rehabilitation along with long term care.
Another health care provider has a facility planned within a mile of Nassau County. HCA Healthcare, the parent company of Memorial Hospital purchased 55.28 acres for 15.8 million and will be under development. “It will allow us to establish a future presence in Nassau County and to align with the planned growth in the region,” said Bradley Talbert, CEO of Memorial Hospital. The medical team is delighted to be part of the Nassau Community and serve the area’s fast-growing medical needs. Located directly at Interstate 95 and Florida A1A, this memorial site will play an important role in Nassau County’s medical community.
For those new homebuyers who are focused on living a healthy lifestyle, the next exciting opening will come this summer. GreenPointe Developers will be unveiling Tributary, an exciting master-planned community just minutes from the new medical centers. Located just west of I-95 off of SR 200, Tributary is adjacent to Tributary Park and the state-protected Four Creeks State Forest. Tributary Park just broke ground and will feature a multitude of facilities that will be open to the public. Among those are multi-purpose and baseball fields, concessions, a playground, a dog park, a boardwalk with kayak launch and interconnected nature trails. The design from the community includes an extensive trail system and access to the waterways for boating, kayaking, fishing and more. “Explore More” is the mantra for residents of Tributary who will be surrounded by beautiful natural areas, great schools, historic downtowns, a wide variety of shopping and the incredible beaches of Amelia Island. It’s a one-of-a-kind location offering an innovative, four-season Florida lifestyle.
Tributary will be the perfect place to call home. The 1,550-acre master-planned community’s private amenities will also include a resort-style pool, fitness center and a fun-filled Amenity Center. New modern-rustic homes will be offered from the area’s top builders and priced from the $300s. Interested homebuyers can download their complimentary digital brochure at tributaryfl.com to ensure they are first to learn of new releases and updates.
North Florida is full of amazing natural wonders and fun attractions. Including beautiful beaches, state-protected wildlife areas and historic landmarks, North Florida has a bit of everything to offer for the outdoor adventurer. Check out the 6 natural wonders you’ll have to add to your list next time you visit the Sunshine State.
Located on the coastline in northeast Florida, Amelia Island is a destination that is easy to reach but hard to forget. This beloved, timeless island continuously entertains visitors and residents with its beautiful beaches, abundant native wildlife, pristine nature, historic district, enthusiastic festivals and one-of-a-kind shopping and dining experience. Being the only place in the USA that has been under the rule of eight different flags: French, British, Patriots, Green Cross, Mexican Revolutionary, Confederacy and USA, Amelia Island is a magnificent address with unique cultural influences.
This 13,147-acre protected area located just west of the new community Tributary serves a wide range of natural features and recreation activities. Four Creeks State Forest is one of few state-protected wildlife sanctuaries where untouched wild animals such as white-tailed deer, wild turkey, gopher tortoise and numerous songbirds reside. Visitors and future residents neighboring the lush protected park will enjoy various recreational activities including hiking, hunting, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, bicycling and horse riding.
Serving Duval, St. Johns, Clay, Nassau, and Baker counties, The Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary is a top destination for many national and international visitors. This non-profit organization provides a safe, loving, forever home for endangered big cats such as tigers, lions and pumas while educating the public about the dangers they are facing in the wild and in captivity.
Jacksonville Zoo and Garden is the only walking safari in Northeast Florida where visitors can experience a true adventure while discovering the planet’s wildlife through interactive and educational activities. It’s not just a regular zoo. Jacksonville Zoo and Garden is one of few zoos in the United States that’s equipped with an animal wellness team and conservation efforts with a program that donates a portion of every ticket to regional and global conservation programs. This destination has a wide range of species to visit with more than 2,000 rare animals and 1,000 exotic plants.
Produced by Riverside Avondale Preservation, Riverside Arts Market takes place every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. rain or shine attracting 4,000+ visitors every Saturday. This family-friendly market features everything from a variety of small business including farmers, artists, and bakers to hours of live music. Each Saturday is different than the last. Pick up the freshest local harvests and try different craft beers from around Florida!
Here, cultural and natural resources have shared a history of over 6,000 years. The Timucuan Preserve contains the last unspoiled coastal wetlands on the Atlantic Coast. Kindsley Plantation is for you to dive into a fascinating history of freedom and enslavement. Explore the 600-acres of natural treasure of hardwood forest, wetlands, and scrub vegetation. The boat ramp and trails of Cedar Point are available for those looking to get even closer to the marvelous nature of The Preserve. There’s no better place to spend a day filled with exciting adventures and explorations.
For those looking to be in the center of these natural wonders and Explore More, you’re going to want to mark your calendar for this summer. New homes in the master-planned community, Tributary, are set to be unveiled to the public. Situated in one of the greatest locations putting residents in the center of all the amazing nature and attractions. This new Northeast Florida community will deliver unmatched value in a beautiful, natural sanctuary. It’s a model lifestyle for tomorrow, waiting to be discovered today. The perfect place to call home. Within the 1,550-acre master-planned community, residents will enjoy the resort-style pool, fitness center and activities at the fun-filled Amenity Center. New modern-rustic homes will be offered from the $300s, interested homebuyers can join the VIP list at tributaryliving.com to ensure they are first to learn of any updates.
NASSAU COUNTY, Fla. – GreenPointe Developers, LLC, in partnership with the Nassau County Board of Commissioners, recently celebrated the groundbreaking of Tributary Park, a Nassau County Regional Park. Tributary Park is located on Edwards Road, just west of Interstate 95. The new public park is adjacent to the community of Tributary, a master-planned, mixed-use community located in one of the area’s fastest-growing corridors.
“Tributary Park will be a wonderful addition to the Nassau County community park system and a place where residents and visitors can gather, play and enjoy nature,” said Grady Miars, President, GreenPointe Communities. “In partnership with Nassau County, we have truly outstanding park designs and we are creating a place where the community can enjoy recreational pursuits and connect with Tributary’s exceptional natural surroundings.”
GreenPointe Developers donated more than 40 acres to Nassau County for conversion into a community park for use by residents and businesses. Tributary Park will be a new regional complex for sports fans and outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. The new park will feature baseball and multi-purpose fields, concessions, a multi-purpose trail, and a future dog park. Completion of the park’s first phase is anticipated in 2021.
Board of County Commissioners Chairman Danny Leeper stated, “We are excited to welcome another GreenPointe Community to Nassau County. Not only are their communities aesthetically pleasing with exceptional architectural styles and landscaping, their communities also offer an array of amenities. Tributary Regional Park will truly have something for everyone and we are excited to partner with them on this project.”
The community of Tributary has been thoughtfully planned to highlight the community’s premier location and geographical features. Tributary will include residential neighborhoods offering resort-style amenities, dog park, a comprehensive trail system, neighborhood parks with riverfront access, commercial and office space, and approximately 3,200 home sites. In addition to building a park and preserving a significant portion of the community’s uplands and wetlands, GreenPointe will be donating a site for a Nassau County public school and building a fire station.
District Five Commissioner Justin Taylor echoed Chairman Leeper’s comments adding, “I am thrilled to partner with GreenPointe Communities to construct much needed recreational space for current and future residents. Because of the thoughtful planning that took place, there is a clear and explicit phasing schedule for these improvements. It’s great to partner with developers who share our vision.”
Homes in Tributary will include single-family homes, townhomes and multi-family properties offering innovative floor plans and home designs ranging in size and style to meet the homebuyer’s lifestyle. Homes are anticipated to be priced from the $300s.
Nassau County’s Planning Director Adrienne Burke stated, “The development program includes homes, as well as office, commercial and industrial space. With this mix of uses, combined with the park and future school site, Tributary will be a part of the Nassau County community for years to come, and will provide opportunities for residents to live, play and work.”
The community will be served by top-rated schools in the Nassau County School District. Tributary will offer a premier location near shopping, dining, recreation, medical centers, business centers and more. Community construction is underway. Sales are anticipated to open in Summer 2020. For more information, visit www.tributaryliving.com.
GreenPointe Developers, LLC, in partnership with the Nassau County Board of Commissioners, recently celebrated the groundbreaking of Tributary Park. From left: Liam O’Rielly, Senior Development Manager, GreenPointe Communities Mike Taylor, North Florida Regional President, GreenPointe Communities Thomas Ford, District 4 Commissioner, Nassau County Adrienne Burke, Director of Planning and Economic Opportunity, Nassau County Pat Edwards, District 3 Commissioner, Nassau County Aaron Bell, District 2 Commissioner, Nassau County Justin Taylor, District 5 Commissioner, Nassau County Daniel Leeper, District 1 Commissioner and Vice Chair, Nassau County Grady Miars, President, GreenPointe Communities Gregg Kern, Project Manager, GreenPointe Communities
GreenPointe Developers is the community and urban development division of GreenPointe Holdings with extensive real estate market data and analytical systems to rapidly assess real estate values and challenges.
The GreenPointe team has more than 140 years collective experience in developing some of the most sought-after master-planned and condominium communities in the Southeast. The team creates and transforms residential and mixed-use communities into neighborhoods for today’s homebuyer while providing lasting, sustainable value.
Having the utmost respect for the land, the GreenPointe team works diligently to protect and enhance nature’s best assets. This thoughtful practice allows GreenPointe Developers to create and reenergize communities that provide for an enduring lifestyle where people want to live, work and enjoy recreation.
More information is available at www.GreenPointeLLC.com or (904) 996-2485.
