River City Rising: 40 Years of Consolidation
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Four decades ago, a group of visionaries set out to transform a politically corrupt, racially divided, and financially bleeding town into the "Bold New City of the South." Spurred by a myriad of political, financial, racial, and environmental problems; inspired by an impromptu, hand-scrawled manifesto; and led by a popular, soft-spoken Southern gentleman, Jacksonville voters cast their ballots for a move that would mean the most momentous change of direction in the River City's history. The vote to consolidate Jacksonville and Duval County governments is lauded as the single most important factor in Jacksonville's development as a prosperous metropolitan area.
This year marks the 40th anniversary of Jacksonville's consolidated government. Consolidation (primarily based on the results of the 1966 study "Blueprint for Improvement") did, in fact, improve many facets of life in Jacksonville. Yet, many issues remain. While Jacksonville boasts several top-rated colleges and universities, private, and magnet schools, too many of its public schools repeatedly fail standardized tests. Although Downtown development has hit major strides, too many of its buildings remain empty eyesores. Racial divisions remain tragically intact. And the River City's crown jewel, the mighty St. Johns River, is still plagued by pollution.
River City Rising will explore the achievements and continued challenges resulting from Consolidation in five key areas:
- Economic Development
- Civil Rights
- Environment
- Education
- Public Services
While Consolidation hasn't cured all of Jacksonville's ills, it did usher in an era of positive change that laid the foundation for incredible growth and remains "the most important thing that ever happened to Jacksonville, without any question," says former Jacksonville Mayor Hans Tanzler, who led the city through Consolidation. River City Rising aims to review Jacksonville's progress following Consolidation and to encourage leaders and citizens to refocus their energies on its original vision.