Boulware Springs Renovation 2026

• Project typeRenovation
• Contractor nameTo be determined

Estimated Project Cost: $4,500,000
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.

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

A local construction management firm will be engaged in the coming months to develop a guaranteed maximum price (GMP) proposal for the project. The GMP is expected to be presented to the City Commission for approval in spring 2026. Construction is anticipated to begin in summer 2026 and will take approximately one year to complete.

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.

Planning and Community Input

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 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.

Design and Permitting Status

The project team has completed 90% of the construction documents and is currently working through the required permitting process. Due to the site’s environmental sensitivity and historic significance, design and permitting have taken longer than originally anticipated.

A permit from the St. Johns River Water Management District (SJRWMD) was issued in July 2025. The project is currently undergoing a second round of development review with the City of Gainesville and Gainesville Regional Utilities (GRU).

Contact details

Location

3300 SE 15th St,,  32641  View Map