The Bostwick family has announced it’s found a buyer for its iconic building in downtown Jacksonville.
The building at the corner of Ocean and Bay Streets, famous for its jaguar mural, was one of the first constructed downtown after the Great Fire of 1901.
Val Bostwick says he can’t reveal many details except that the building is under contract and the buyer is interested in restoring it.
"It's been tough finding the right party to purchase the building because of its condition. Economic conditions in the real estate market over the last few years, particularly downtown haven't helped." he said. "But recent announcements such as the Trio and Barnett buildings and the former Hayden Burns Library have refocused attention Downtown, hopefully we're next."
The building has been in a state of disrepair for years, and is need of extensive renovation including a new roof.
If the deal is finalized, it would end a dispute between the Bostwick family and local historic preservationists.
The family had asked the city for permission to tear down the building, but decided to delay the move to see if a buyer could be found.
Val Bostwick says the only reason the family didn’t move to restore the building themselves is that they couldn’t afford it.
WJCT got a rare glimpse inside the Bostwick building earlier this year - check out the video below.
