JACKSONVILLE, FL, September 23, 2026 - Springfield Preservation and Revitalization (SPAR) has retained JAA Architecture for the design of the Drew Residence as part of the rehabilitation plan for the historically significant property.
SPAR acquired the Drew Residence in November 2025. The acquisition represents a novel approach to avoiding demolition by neglect and ensuring historic preservation that SPAR hopes to replicate for other architecturally significant properties in the future. SPAR intends to rehabilitate the property, which has fallen into disrepair in recent years. The rehabilitation plan calls for the Drew Residence to be adapted into a publicly accessible community living room and archive as well as a small business incubator with low-cost office space for businesses receiving support from Springfield’s business association.
SPAR retained JAA Architecture for the design of the rehabilitated structure after reviewing requests for qualifications and proposals from a number of firms. According to Michael Haskins, SPAR Executive Director, “JAA’s proposal offered a comprehensive plan and the most responsible use of our donors’ funds. JAA has extensive experience in historic preservation, including a number of recent projects in the Springfield Historic District. We couldn’t be more excited to work with them.”
The scope of work includes architectural and structural design, as-built drawings, a comprehensive rehabilitation plan, permit and construction documents, etc. Architecture is funded, in part, through the Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville and the State of Florida Division of Historical Resources.
“It is an honor for us to be part of the team entrusted with bringing the historic Drew Residence back to life and preserving its architectural legacy. We look forward to the rehabilitation of this remarkable piece of Jacksonville’s history and seeing it begin a new chapter as a meaningful space for the Springfield community,” JAA Architecture’s John Allmand said.
While architecture is fully funded, fundraising for the $1.5 million construction campaign is ongoing. SPAR has launched the Drew Rehabilitation Fund to support capital and related operating expenses. SPAR is working to secure grant funding at the national, state and city levels, and is seeking donors to support grant match requirements. Contact Michael Haskins, SPAR Executive Director, at executivedirector@sparcouncil.org or visit sparcouncil.org/drew_fund to give to these efforts.
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Springfield Preservation and Revitalization (SPAR) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated since 1974 to improving the quality of life in the Springfield Historic District. Gifts to the Drew Rehabilitation Fund support capital and related operating expenses for the rehabilitation of the Drew Residence.