About First Coast Observer

Our Mission

First Coast Observer exists to hold powerful interests accountable and inform residents about the forces shaping their communities. We believe that quality journalism about development, construction, and real estate is essential for an engaged and informed citizenry.

Our coverage focuses on the intersection of public policy, private development, and community impact. We track every building permit, attend every planning meeting, and follow the money behind the projects transforming Northeast Florida.

What We Cover

We provide comprehensive coverage of the development ecosystem in Northeast Florida, including:

• Commercial and residential development projects
• Building permits and zoning decisions
• Infrastructure investments and public-private partnerships
• Housing affordability and displacement
• Environmental impact of development
• Construction industry trends and workforce issues
• Real estate market analysis

Our Approach

We practice document-driven journalism. Every major story we publish includes links to the primary sources we used in our reporting, from permit applications to meeting minutes to court records. We believe readers deserve to see the evidence behind our conclusions.

Our permit tracking database, updated daily, gives residents unprecedented access to information about development activity in their neighborhoods. We monitor filings from the City of Jacksonville, St. Johns County, Nassau County, and Clay County.

Our Team

Our newsroom is staffed by experienced journalists with deep expertise in development, real estate, and investigative reporting.

Contact Us

Have a tip? Want to share a document? We welcome reader input and protect our sources. Contact us at tips@firstcoastobserver.com or use our secure tip line.

For general inquiries, advertising, or partnership opportunities, email info@firstcoastobserver.com.