Friendship Fountain is a large fountain in Jacksonville, Florida. It is in St. Johns River Park (also known as Friendship Fountain Park) at the west end of Downtown Jacksonville's Southbank Riverwalk attraction. The world's largest and tallest fountain when it opened, it has been one of Jacksonville's most recognizable and popular attractions.[1][2]
The fountain and park were designed by Jacksonville architect Taylor Hardwick in 1963 and opened in 1965. The fountain's three pumps could push 17,000 US gallons (64,000 L) of water per minute up to 120 feet (37 m) in height.[3] Friendship Fountain remained one of Jacksonville's signature attractions through the 20th century, but severe corrosion and deterioration to the equipment resulted in periodic closures in the 2000s. In 2011 the city completed a $3.2 million renovation to the fountain and the surrounding park. A second renovation began in 2020 and, after several delays, was completed in 2024, with a nearly $8 million budget.[4]
- ^ "Fountain feedback". Florida Times-Union. May 6, 2006. Archived from the original on August 21, 2008.
- ^ Scanlan, Dan (March 28, 2001). "Fountain goes dry for repairs". Florida Times-Union. Archived from the original on April 13, 2001.
- ^ "Friendship Fountain". www.jacksonville.gov. Retrieved October 7, 2024.
- ^ Szaroleta, Tom. "Reimagined, renovated Friendship Fountain back in action on Jacksonville riverfront". The Florida Times-Union. Retrieved October 7, 2024.