Boulware Springs Renovation

• Project typeRenovation
• Contractor nameTo be determined

Current Project Budget: $4,723,555, Construction costs will be further refined once the project scope has been reevaluated.

View the project plan(PDF, 51MB)   

Project Overview

The City of Gainesville is planning improvements at the historic Boulware Springs Waterworks site to preserve the Waterworks Building and enhance public access to this unique natural and cultural resource.

The project includes renovation of the historic Waterworks Building, construction of a new trailhead restroom, a new parking area, site lighting, a pavilion, landscaping and site stabilization improvements. Together, these upgrades will protect the site’s historic character while making it more accessible and enjoyable for visitors. 

In 2022, the City hired Jones Edmunds & Associates, Inc. to lead master planning for the site. Planning efforts included topographic and utility surveys, geotechnical investigations, wetland delineation, and other technical studies. An open house was held in January 2023 to gather community input and share early concepts. Feedback from the public helped inform the final master plan, which was completed in April 2023.

Project Funding & Acknowledgements

This project is sponsored in part by the Department of State, Division of Historical Resources, and the State of Florida.

Project Schedule

Before finalizing design and proceeding to procurement and construction, staff are vetting the plans and completing additional due diligence given the environmental sensitivity of the site. This process may result in scope changes and refinements to the current design.

The goal is to ensure the renovations and site improvements are carried out in the safest and most efficient manner possible.

The project is anticipated to enter redesign in Fall 2026, with construction potentially beginning as early as Fall 2027.

Historic and Cultural Significance

The Boulware Springs Waterworks Building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is designated as an American Water Works Landmark. Constructed between 1891 and 1908, the building is a notable example of early 20th-century industrial architecture.

Boulware Springs served as Gainesville’s first municipal water utility until 1913 and later functioned as an auxiliary water source until 1977. The site’s setting uniquely blends engineering, natural springs, and surrounding landscape.

Beyond its architectural importance, Boulware Springs holds deep historical and cultural significance. Archaeological investigations indicate prehistoric occupation of the area. In 1853, the site hosted the assembly that selected Gainesville as the Alachua County seat. Later, in 1905, the promise of free spring water from Boulware Springs played a key role in the decision to relocate the University of Florida from Lake City to Gainesville.

Project Team

• Engineering and Master Planning: Jones Edmunds & Associates, Inc.
• Architectural Design: Studio MJG, LLC
• Landscape Architecture: Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc.
• Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing Design: Campbell Spellicy Engineering, Inc.
• Structural Design: GSE Engineering & Consulting, Inc.

Contact details

Location

3300 SE 15th St,  32641  View Map