The emergence of a new prospective buyer partnering with a local construction company with a proven track record of historic restoration work has kindled new hope that the Laura Street Trio of early 20th-century buildings in Downtown Jacksonville can be brought back to life.

Alan Cottrill, president and CEO of Avant Construction Group of Jacksonville, confirmed reports that his company is working with an out-of-state party interested in acquiring the Trio from longtime owner SouthEast Development Group and its principal, Steve Atkins.

The deal would also include the sale of the renovated former Barnett National Bank building.

Cottrill declined to identify the possible buyer but said they are well-capitalized, have completed two development projects and have experience in adaptive reuse

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