JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — A new future for a once iconic Jacksonville structure.

Developers filed for permits to start the Regency Square Mall’s transformation into the Nexus as Regency.

Blackwater Development announced plans to purchase the mall nearly two years ago.

Then, in April of this year, the sale was finalized.

Visitors arrived to bid farewell at the end of May on the mall’s final day of operations, as the interior closed permanently after nearly 60 years of service.

However, there are still a few businesses left on the outside that are trying to figure out what the Nexus means for them.

“Everything is still undecided. We’re exploring the best path forward to continue serving our community,” said Rhythm Factory Executive Director Michael Butler.

Butler says the decision to close the interior of the mall didn’t impact his business, the Rhythm Factory.

Some businesses with access from the outside were able to stay open, waiting to see what comes next.

“Trying to work with them for the future to see if we can possibly stay here or another portion of the mall,” said Butler.

The future is officially on the way, as Blackwater Development announced it filed for permits to start construction on the Nexus at Regency.

Blackwater bought the mall in April with plans to raze it and replace it with housing, retail and entertainment space.

Nevertheless, parts of the mall, including the Dillard’s, Impact Church, and the former Sears building, are owned independently, meaning the Nexus will be developed around these areas.

Butler says he plans to stay through at least the end of the year while he looks for a new space.

“We have three other potential locations we’re evaluating, hoping to find the best opportunity to keep serving the community,” Butler added.

Ideally, if space permits, Butler hopes to remain part of the Nexus at Regency, especially considering the countless memories made at the Rhythm Factory’s mall location.

“People have enjoyed wonderful wedding ceremonies, celebrations, birthday parties, and quinceañeras,” Butler stated. “We aim to continue offering the community something extraordinary, without the extravagant price.”

First Coast News learned this week that the Duval County School Board reached out at one point to consider the mall for its new headquarters and that Sporting Jax considered part of it for a soccer stadium, but neither deal came to fruition.

The CEO of Blackwater Development told First Coast News Sporting Jax was looking at the Sears property, which is not part of the portion Blackwater Development owns.

The Blackwater CEO said he can’t control what happens over there, but he’ll welcome any development that will boost activity around Regency.