Wild Spaces & Public Places Projects

Work on the Fred Cone Park track and infield , located at 2801 E University Ave., began in March with an anticipated completion in June 2025. The project includes resurfacing the track and repairing and reseeding the infield. American Athletic Track & Turf resurfaced and restriped the track in mid-March. Urban Greenscapes, LLC began the infield repair in late March with an anticipated completion in June 2025. The combined project cost is $319,494.19. For more information, please contact Rachel Mandell, project manager, at 352-393-8544 or mandellrc@cityofgainesville.org.

Planned improvements include the addition of eight dedicated pickleball courts, new seating areas, parking lot lighting and a pedestrian entrance from the NE 16th Ave. crosswalk. The project will also re-route the existing multi-purpose trail to enhance ADA accessibility and improve the landscaping and stormwater management on-site. The project is anticipated to begin in May and complete in the spring of 2026. D.E. Scorpio Corporation was awarded the contract for these improvements through a competitive bidding process for a total of $1,967,007.

A full plan set of the park's improvements are available to view online.

For more information, please contact Rachel Mandell, project manager, at 352-393-8544 or mandellrc@cityofgainesville.org. 

Renovations at Duval Nature Park, located at 610 NE 24th Street, began in February with an anticipated completion in June, 2025. The planned enhancements include an asphalt parking lot at the park entrance on NE 24th Street, a new walking trail around the existing stormwater pond at the eastern end of the park, a pedestrian entrance connecting the neighborhood to the north, a new playground, new signage throughout the park and other enhancements. AKEA, Inc. was awarded the contract for these improvements through a competitive bidding process for a total of $237,000. For more information, please contact Rachel Mandell, project manager, at 352-393-8544 or mandellrc@cityofgainesville.org. 

Renovation of the historic elevator at the Old Post Office Building and Federal Courthouse (The Hippodrome) building began in Feb. with an estimated completion in July, 2025. Improvements include refurbishment of the motor, rewinding of the hoist motor, reconditioning of the hoist motor, brushes and overall rebuilding. Eletech Elevator Company was awarded the construction contract at the cost of $135,799.00. For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@cityofgainesville.org.

Lighting improvements will take place at 5 City Parks from October, 2023 through March, 2025.  At Albert “Ray” Massey Park, located at 1001 NW 34th Street, lighting was upgraded on the softball field, basketball courts and baseball fields 1 and 2.  At Greentree Park, located at 3700 NW 19th St., the baseball field lighting was upgraded. At Fred Cone Park, located at 2801 E University Ave., new lighting was installed on the basketball courts and multipurpose field. At Cora P. Roberson Park, located at 600 SW 6th St., the basketball court lighting was upgraded. Upcoming lighting projects include upgrades to the softball fields and tennis courts and new lighting on the multipurpose field at Tom Petty Park, located at 501 NE 16th Ave. Musco Sports Lighting, LLC is performing the work at an estimated project cost of $2,285,210. For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@cityofgainesville.org.

Construction of sidewalk improvements took place in April at T.B. McPherson Recreation Complex, located at 1717 SE 15th Street, and at Hogtown Creek Headwaters Nature Center, located at 1500 NW 45^th Avenue. Construction Genes, LLC facilitated both projects with respective construction project costs of $14,922 and $11,696. These projects include replacing broken sidewalk and concrete grinding to improve universal park access. For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@cityofgainesville.org.

Dredging of the Boulware Springs Basins adjacent to the historic Boulware Water Works Building, located at 3300 SE 15th Street, began in February and completed in April, 2025. Through a competitive procurement process, SE Diving, LLC was awarded the construction contract at the cost of $87,500. For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@cityofgainesville.org. 

37 wayfinding and informational signs have been installed along the City of Gainesville’s network of paved multi-use paths. Installation of the signs began in February and was completed in March.

Color-coded by trail, the signage suite includes: 
Mile Zero Trail Map: Situated at the corner of SW Sixth Street and Depot Avenue., the Mile Zero Trail Map charts trails, city parks and offers etiquette guidelines for trail use. Directional Signs: Signs indicate the distance to upcoming points of interest. Vicinity Maps: Maps at strategic points along the trails show nearby points of interest, connecting trails and etiquette guidelines for trail use. Mile Markers: Signs indicate the distance from the mile zero marker.

Department of Transportation staff collaborated with the Bicycle Pedestrian Advisory Board on the signage suite's design, content and trail etiquette guidelines. The signs were designed in-house by Wild Spaces & Public Spaces staff. Through a competitive procurement process, Clear Image Signs, LLC, a local business, was awarded the production and installation contract at the cost of $29,923.95.

For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@gainesvillefl.gov.

Renovation of the track at Kiwanis Challenge Park, located at 2002 NW 36th Ave., began in December and completed in March, 2025. Improvements include the installation of concrete pads to house two ADA-compliant picnic tables and six benches and resurfacing of the track. AKEA, Inc. performed the work at a project cost of $246,000. For more information, please contact Rachel Mandell, project manager, at 352-393-8544 or mandellrc@cityofgainesville.org. 

Reconstruction of the basketball court at Hidden Gem Park, located at 3170 NW 20th St., began in late December and completed in March, 2025. New basketball court poles were installed as part of this project. Walker Concrete & Masonry, LLC performed the work at a project cost of $25,103. For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@cityofgainesville.org. 

Renovation of the restrooms at Abby Wambach Park, located at 4501 SW 20th Ave., began in November and completed in March, 2025. The new restroom design meets accessibility guidelines. Work on the building’s interior consisted of new toilets, urinals, partitions, countertops, faucets, sinks, diaper changing stations and lighting. Exterior improvements included a new metal roof, skylights and gutters. TPF Construction Services, LLC performed the work at a project cost of $109,600.00. For more information, please contact Rachel Mandell, project manager, at 352-393-8544 or mandellrc@cityofgainesville.org. 

Repair of the boardwalk at Alfred A. Ring Nature Park, located at 1801 NW 23rd Blvd., began in November and completed in February of 2025. Work on the ten sections of boardwalk throughout the park consisted of replacement of all the walking surfaces, top handrails and construction of new concrete ramps at the north trailhead bridge. MKM Quality Construction, Inc. performed the work at a project cost of $337,369. For more information, please contact Rachel Mandell, project manager, at 352-393-8544 or mandellrc@cityofgainesville.org. 

A new pool slide was installed at Dwight H. Hunter Pool, located at 1100 NE 14^th St., beginning in May of 2024 and completing in March 2025. Rain Drop Products, LLC performed the work at a project cost of $353,855. For more information, please contact Rachel Mandell project manager, at 352-393-8544 or mandellrc@cityofgainesville.org. 

Repair of the hurricane damage sustained during Hurricanes Helene and Milton to the Loblolly Woods Nature Park Boardwalk, located at 2710 NW 8th Ave., took place in January, 2025. Through a competitive procurement process, TPF Construction Services, LLC was awarded the construction contract at the cost of $10,100. For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@cityofgainesville.org.

Construction of improvements to the Hippodrome’s roof and gutter system began in August and completed in September 2024. The Hippodrome is located at 25 SE 2^nd Place. The work included installing replacement flashing around eight dormer windows and one chimney and lining the gutter system to prevent stormwater infiltration. Next Dimension Construction, LLC performed the work at a cost of $143,483.61. For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@cityofgainesville.org.

Construction of drainage improvements on field 2 at Tom Petty Park, located at 501 NE 16^th Avenue, began in late August and completed in September 2024. Florida Green Keepers, LLC performed the work at a cost of $23,650.00. For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@cityofgainesville.org.

Bollards were installed at the entrance to Split Rock Conservation Area, located at 6371 SW 20^th Ave., to prevent unauthorized vehicular access to the site. The work took place in mid-August 2024. TPF Construction Services, LLC performed the work at a cost of $4,477.00. For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@cityofgainesville.org.

Construction of pedestrian crossings over wetlands within Split Rock Conservation Area, located at 6371 SW 20^th Ave., began in March and completed in July 2024. The City’s Natural Resources Division constructed the boardwalks with materials that were purchased with Wild Spaces & Public Places funds. The project cost was $43,800.79. For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@cityofgainesville.org

Construction of a new neighborhood park, located at 2099 SE 8^th Avenue, began in January and completed in July 2024. Construction included the creation of a 1/3 mile trail, new decorative fencing around the stormwater pond and a landscaped entrance featuring wood rail fencing, entrance columns and decorative boulders. The park has a small playground, seating and adult fitness equipment. Joyner Construction Partners, LLC, a small local business, performed the work.  The total cost of construction was $369,733. For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@cityofgainesville.org.

Construction of sidewalk improvements took place at Possum Creek Park, Fred Cone Park and Bivens Arm Nature Park. Work began in March and completed in June 2024. Walker Masonry & Concrete LLC performed the work at Fred Cone Park at a project cost of $34,672.00, Possum Creek Park at a project cost of $17,748.38 and Bivens Arm Nature Park at a project cost of $9,343.00. These projects included replacing broken sidewalk, concrete grinding and adding new sidewalk to improve park access. For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@cityofgainesville.org.

Replacement of the Morningside Nature Center Hogan’s Cabin roof, located at 3540 E. University Ave., began in February and completed in April 2024. The project included removal and replacement of the cedar shake roof and chimney on the 1840’s cabin. Atlantic Roofing & Exteriors, LLC, a small local business, performed the work at a project cost of $79,020. For more information, please contact Pete McNiece, project manager, at 352-393-8544 or mcniecepr@cityofgainesville.org

Construction of sidewalk improvements at Albert “Ray” Massey Park and Lincoln Park began in July and completed in October. Construction Genes, LLC performed the work at Albert “Ray” Massey Park at a cost of $23,050.00 and at Lincoln Park at a cost of $12,201.20. These projects included replacing broken sidewalk, concrete grinding and adding new sidewalk to improve park access. For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@cityofgainesville.org.

Work at Tom Petty Park, located at 501 NE 16^th Ave., began in mid-April and completed in early December 2023. The project included construction of an accessible pathway to all 3 softball fields, drainage improvements and new turf on the softball fields as well as shade structures installed over the bleachers and fencing upgrades. New scoreboards, water lines, water fountains and benches were also installed as part of this project. Andrews Paving, Inc. performed the work at a project cost of $747,000. For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@cityofgainesville.org.

The stage at Bo Diddley Plaza, located at 111 E University Ave., was reconstructed, starting in late November and completing in early December, to improve drainage and functionality.  Advance Industrial Coatings, LLC performed the work at a project cost of $30,105.10. For more information, please contact Pete McNiece, project manager, at 352-393-8544 or mcniecepr@cityofgainesville.org.

4501 SW 20th Ave.
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Major renovations at Forest Park, located at 4501 SW 20th Ave., began in February and completed on September 23, 2023.  Improvements to the popular soccer fields at the park included: improved field drainage, field lighting, the addition of a 2/3-sized soccer field, turf replacement and irrigation modifications, 13 new shade structures and 30 new bleachers. Additional improvements to the park included: pickleball and basketball court surfacing, the creation of small and large off-leash dog parks with amenities, a new pavilion, two competition-quality sand volleyball courts, parking lot lighting, and 7 water fountains with bottle fillers. Blackwater Construction Services, LLC, a small, local business, was the general contractor for the project. The project cost was $2,667,877 for construction by Blackwater Construction Services, LLC and $890,000 for sports lighting by NGU Sports Lighting, LLC. To support the renovation of Forest Park, the Florida Legislature awarded Gainesville’s Wild Spaces & Public Places program a $200,000 Florida Recreation Development Assistance Program (FRDAP) matching grant. For more information, please contact Pete McNiece, project manager, at 352-393-8544 or mcniecepr@cityofgainesville.org.

25 SE 2ndPlace
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Work at the Hippodrome Theatre began in early May and completed in August 2023.  The project included a wholesale renovation of the cinema: new theatre seats, new light fixtures, new paint, carpet, a new movie screen, acoustic wall panels and much more.  The project also included upgrades to both the first and second floor restrooms.  Joyner Construction, Inc. performed the work at a cost of $337,570. For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@cityofgainesville.org.

Multiple improvements took place at Morningside Nature Center in 2023. A new drinking fountain along the path to the living history farm was installed, new electrical receptacles and lights were installed in the barn, a new cedar shake roof was installed on the garden shed and a new metal roof was installed on the barn. The total project cost was $27,795. For more information, please contact Pete McNiece, project manager, at 352-393-8544 or mcniecepr@cityofgainesville.org.

1001 NW 34th St.
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Construction of a space-themed playground began in August 2022 and completed at the end of March 2023. The new playground offers a wide variety of physical, social and sensory play experiences for children of all ages and abilities. Fully accessible play surfacing and a colorful theme boost imaginative play within the fully-fenced playground. Scherer Construction of North Florida, LLC was the general contractor for the project. The construction project cost was approximately $2,024,824.37. For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@cityofgainesville.org.

1700 NE 31st Ave.

Construction of a restroom at Unity Park began in December 2022 and completed in August 2023. AKEA, Inc., a local minority, service-disabled veteran owned contractor, was the general contractor for the project. The construction project cost was $229,680. For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@cityofgainesville.org.

1001 NW 31 Dr.
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A major renovation of the 50-year old building and pool, located at at Albert "Ray" Massey Park, began in January 2022 and completed in May 2023. Improvements included a new roofing system, new showers, restroom fixtures, lockers, benches, interior finishes and light fixtures, parking lot reconstruction, new fencing and wind screen and much more. Blackwater Construction Services, LLC, a local business, was the general contractor for the project. The construction project cost was $1,678,294. For more information, please contact Pete McNiece, project manager, at 352-393-8544 or mcniecepr@cityofgainesville.org.

4009 NW 53rd Ave.
email announcement

A lighting project at Possum Creek Park began in March and completed in July 2023.  The project included lighting the skate park, the parking lot and a path to the restroom building. Musco Sports Lighting, LLC managed the work in coordination with Vintage Electric, Inc. and M. Gay Constructors, Inc.  The project cost was $156, 663.88. For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@cityofgainesville.org.

6224 NW 28th Terrace
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A project at A.N.N.E. Park began in March and completed in July 2023. The project included construction of an accessible pathway through the park, installation of musical instruments, a new roof on the pavilion, new trash and recycling receptacles and a new swing set. The project cost was $54,504 and the work was performed by City Staff. For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@cityofgainesville.org.

Dreamer’s Garden, located at 920 NW 4th St., had a new decorative 60" wide metal arch and gate installed. J.A.M. Construction, Inc. a small local business, performed the work at a project cost of $8,600.00. The work began in October and completed in November 2023. For more information, please contact Pete McNiece, project manager, at 352-393-8544 or mcniecepr@cityofgainesville.org

New gates and a new electric gate operator were installed at the entrance to Sweetwater Wetlands Park in November 2022. Gainesville Ironworks, Inc. performed the work. The construction project cost was $14,675. For more information, please contact Cully Lord, project manager, at 352-393-8437 or LordCW@gainesvillefl.gov.

1701 NE 8th Ave.
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As a part of the City of Gainesville Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs Department’s 352walls initiative, Haitian American artist Mwanel Pierre-Louis, AKA One L, created a mural at the front entrance of the community center, paying tribute to Clarence R. Kelly who passed away in 2011 at the age of 56. Kelly was the director of the then Northeast Recreation Center for 35 years. The center was renamed in his honor after his death. The project cost was $9,000.

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1701 NE 8th Ave.

A fence was installed around the stormwater pond at Clarence R. Kelly Park in July. The work was performed by Hercules Fence Company, Inc. and the construction project cost was $9,850. For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@gainesvillefl.gov.

Installation of lighting at Clarence R. Kelly Park, located at 1701 NE 8 Avenue, began in late August and completed in September.  The new lighting allows basketball players to enjoy the park’s basketball court until 10pm. Bolt Electric Contractors, Inc., a local small business, was the contractor for the project. The construction project cost was $17,711. For more information, please contact Pete McNiece, project manager, at 352-393-8544 or mcniecepr@gainesvillefl.gov.

Construction of the new Clarence R. Kelly Community Center and Park, completed in May of 2022.  Improvements included the construction of a new 3,800 SF community center and neighborhood park.  The park includes a new playground, adult fitness equipment, a full-sized, lighted basketball court, a fenced community garden and much more. Blackwater Construction Services, LLC, a local business, was the general contractor for the project. The construction project cost was $2,292,276. For more information, please contact Pete McNiece, project manager, at 352-393-8544 or mcniecepr@gainesvillefl.gov.

Reconstruction of the four tennis courts at Tom Petty Park, located at 400 NE 16th Ave., began May 12 and completed in early October.  The courts were originally constructed in the 1970s and required a complete rebuild. Nidy Sports Construction Company, Inc. performed the work at a project cost of $158,245. For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@gainesvillefl.gov.

Improvements to the tennis and pickleball courts began in July and completed in early August. Nidy Sports Construction Company, Inc. performed the work at a project cost of $23,464. For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@gainesvillefl.gov.

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Accessibility improvements at Tom Petty Park took place on the path by the playground. Work began in mid-June and completed in July. The City’s Public Works Department performed the work at a project cost of $2,600. For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@gainesvillefl.gov.

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325 SW Williston Road

The construction of a garage to house two future electric vehicles for the park completed in May.  One of the electric vehicles will be used for tours while the other will help staff complete maintenance operations. M&M Masonry, LLC poured the concrete pad, Shed Ranch, Inc. erected the metal garage and Bolt Electric, LLC provided electric service to the new building. The construction project cost, inclusive of the two electric vehicles for the park, was $71,505. For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@gainesvillefl.gov.

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6400 NW 43rd Way

The construction of Pétanque Courts at San Felasco Park completed in April.  The work was performed by Magnolia Landscaping, LLC and the construction cost was $17,928. For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@gainesvillefl.gov.

A fence was installed between the bleachers and the track at Fred Cone Park in April.  The work was performed by R & B Fencing, Inc. and the construction project cost was $14,000. For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@gainesvillefl.gov.

Two new light poles and additional court lights were installed in April to better illuminate the pickleball and tennis courts.  The work was performed by NGU Sports Lighting, LLC and the construction project cost was $63,500. For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@gainesvillefl.gov.

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2100 NE 39th Ave, Gainesville, FL 32609

Work to reconstruct portions of the Ironwood Golf Course concrete cart path completed in January 2022.  Shine & Company, Inc. performed the work. The construction project cost was $181,500. For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@gainesvillefl.gov.

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3315 NW 5th Ave.

Work to reconstruct the boardwalk at Loblolly Woods Nature Park, spanning from NW 8 Avenue approximately 1400 feet north, completed in January 2022.  IMS Contracting, Inc. was the general contractor for the project. The construction project cost was $420,187. For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@gainesvillefl.gov.

Construction of a porous concrete trail at Sweetwater Wetlands Park began on November 29 and completed on December 28, 2021.  Improvements included construction of a paved path from the park’s entrance to cell 1.  American Construction Services, Inc. was the general contractor for the project. The construction project cost was $218,227. For more information, please contact Pete McNiece, project manager, at 352-393-8544 or mcniecepr@cityofgainesville.org.

Photo Album

1901 NE 9th St.

Renovations of the track and tennis/basketball courts at Howard Bishop Middle School, located at 1901 NE 9th St., began in June and completed in November 2021. D.E. Scorpio Corporation, a local business, was the general contractor for the project.  This recreation area was improved through a partnership with Alachua County Public Schools. The City of Gainesville’s portion of the construction project cost was $250,000.  For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@gainesvillefl.gov.

1001 NW 34th St.

Construction of a new retaining wall by the baseball scorer’s box, between fields 1 and 2, began in May and completed in October of 2021. Elevated Design & Construction, LLC, a small, local, minority-owned business, was the general contractor for the project.  The construction project cost was $31,700. For more information, please contact Pete McNiece, project manager, at 352-393-8544 or mcniecepr@gainesvillefl.gov.

Photo Album

1710 NE 31st Ave.

Work on Unity Park, a new neighborhood park located at 1700 NE 31st Ave., began in August of 2020 and completed in the fall of 2021. Improvements to the park included two new basketball courts, a community garden, playground equipment, sidewalk games, a pavilion, grill and a walking loop with fitness stations. The Flatwoods Conservation Area Trailhead, located nearby at 2010 NE 31st Ave., also received upgrades to include parking lot improvements, a new kiosk, a trash/recycling container and bike racks.  The approximate project cost was $1,081,038. AKEA, Inc. a local, minority, certified service-disabled veteran owned small business, was the general contractor for the project.  For more information, please contact Pete McNiece, project manager, at 352-393-8544 or mcniecepr@gainesvillefl.gov.

1100 Northeast 14th St.

Renovations of the women’s locker room at Dwight H. Hunter (Northeast) Pool completed at the end of September 2021.  Bolt Electric Contractors, Inc. installed new lights and McLeod General Trades, LLC installed new restroom partitions. The construction project cost was approximately $11,721. For more information, please contact Pete McNiece, project manager, at 352-393-8544 or mcniecepr@gainesvillefl.gov.

1201 NE 22nd St.

Renovation of the Cedar Grove Park playground, located at 1200 NE 22nd Street, completed at the end of April 2021.  Miracle Recreation Equipment Company performed the work.  The project cost was $16,018. For more information, please contact John Weber, project manager, at 352-393-8186 or weberjf@gainesvillefl.gov.

1100 Northeast 14th St.

Elevated Design & Construction, LLC renovated the men’s locker room at the Dwight H. Hunter Pool located at 1100 NE 14th St. The locker room received new privacy partitions in the bathroom area, upgraded LED lighting throughout, and wall-mounted mirrors. The project cost was $19,675 and the work completed in April 2021. For more information, please contact Pete McNiece, project manager, at 352-393-8544 or mcniecepr@gainesvillefl.gov.

1001 NW 31 Dr.

Creative Shade Solutions installed four 20’x 30’ shade structures at the H. Spurgeon Cherry Pool, located at 1001 NW 31st Drive, in March of 2021. The project cost was $30,300. For more information, please contact Pete McNiece, project manager, at 352-393-8544 or mcniecepr@gainesvillefl.gov.

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1717 SE 15th St.

Advanced Roofing, Inc. replaced the pavilion roofs at T.B. McPherson Recreation Complex located at 1717 SE 15th St.. The project cost was $17,888 and the work completed at the end of January 2021. For more information, please contact Pete McNiece, project manager, at 352-393-8544 or mcniecepr@gainesvillefl.gov.

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1001 NW 31 Dr.
1100 Northeast 14th St.

Improvements to the Splash Pads were completed in December 2020. Both Splash Pads received a complete overhaul which included new water features and the refurbishing of the most popular of the existing amenities. The project cost was $133,863. For more information, please contact Pete McNiece, project manager, at 352-393-8544 or mcniecepr@gainesvillefl.gov.

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1013 NW 7th Ave.

Improvements to the A. Quinn Jones Museum & Cultural Center, located at 1013 NW 7th Ave., completed in late 2020. The work included creating a stormwater management system under the newly paved parking lot, a brick paver courtyard at the rear of the building with new seating, a storage shed, bike racks, landscaping and site lighting. The project cost was $313,000. For more information, please contact Pete McNiece, project manager, at 352-393-8544 or mcniecepr@gainesvillefl.gov.

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1001 NW 34th St.

Improvements at Albert “Ray” Massey Park completed in November 2020. Improvements to baseball fields 1 and 2 included field regrading, new “performance” turf, reconstruction of the ramp to the scorer’s platform, a new ADA accessible viewing area over field 1 and erosion stabilization measures. The southernmost parking lot entrance was permanently closed to minimize vehicular traffic adjacent to the children’s playground and reduce congestion and the associated safety concerns at the intersection with NW 8th Ave. The parking area was reconfigured to provide 20 new parking spaces, dedicated bus, scooter and motorcycle parking and triple the number of ADA spaces. The project cost was $810,449. Hicks Asphalt Paving & Concrete Company, a small, local vendor, was the general contractor for the project. For more information, please contact Pete McNiece, project manager, at 352-393-8544 or mcniecepr@gainesvillefl.gov.

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5701 NW 34th Blvd

The renovation project at Northside Park completed in October of 2020. Improvements included the addition of 40 parking spaces, a new playground and construction of a new multi-generational play area, the “Generations Play Zone”. The Generations Play Zone was designed to provide activities for all ages and includes outdoor games such as bocce ball, pickleball/tennis courts, pétanque, table tennis, checkers and chess. The project also included construction of an outdoor patio, large pavilions with grills, shaded seating and viewing areas and a walking path with outdoor exercise equipment. The project cost was $2,145,524. Scherer Construction of North Florida facilitated the work.  For more details about the project, click here. For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@gainesvillefl.gov.

Photo Album
321 NW 10th St.

Construction of a new wooden fence on the east property line of the park completed in September of 2020. This fence separates the park’s play areas from the adjacent neighborhood and provides a visual screen for the community from the playground and NW 10th St. The fence was installed by Park Operations Staff. The project cost was $1,500.  For more information, please contact Pete McNiece, project manager, at 352-393-8544 or mcniecepr@gainesvillefl.gov.

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810 NW 8th Ave.

Work completed at Oakview Park (formerly named Kiwanis Girl Scout Park) in September of 2020.  Improvements included renovations to the building, a new modern playground, landscaping, removing invasive species and parking. The project cost was $998,000. For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@gainesvillefl.gov.

Photo Album
1500 NW 45th Ave.

Renovations to the circa-1890 farm house to create a nature center completed in September of 2020. The project cost was $478,000. Click here to view in-progress photos of the nature center’s renovation. J.E. Decker Construction Group, LLC was the general contractor who facilitated the work. For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@gainesvillefl.gov.

Photo Album
Virtual Video Tour

25 SE 2nd Place

The City of Gainesville’s 2018-2020 efforts include the following improvements at the Hippodrome:

First and Second Floor Lobbies:
New flooring, doors and door frames, wood trim, countertops, paint, new lighting and fixtures and restoration and relocation of existing historic light fixtures. $196,562

Exterior Lighting:
Replacement and upgrades to exterior and front porch LED lighting. $49,872

Building Exterior:
Replacement of the box office window, an exterior steel door and repair to the building’s gutter lining. $9,364

Interior Lighting:
New office, general and theatrical lighting for the first and second floor. $32,440

Accessibility Improvements:
New ADA assistive listening systems for the main stage and cinema. New stair nosing for the auditorium and upgraded second floor handrails. $9,603

Air Conditioning:
Replacement of units on the first floor and basement green room, and first-time installation of an air conditioning system in the scene shop. $21,627

Speaker System:
New speaker system for the second floor. $4,910

Joyner Construction Partners, LLC was the general contractor for the project.  For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@gainesvillefl.gov.

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874 SE 4 St.

Electrical improvements completed at Depot Park in August of 2020.  The work included the addition of bollard lighting from the Depot Park parking lot to the old RTS parking lot.  This project also included a large electrical capacity upgrade to the park.  Existing light poles were retrofitted with electrical outlets and additional 30 and 50 amp outlets were strategically located in the Little Lawns, the West Overlook, the East Overlook and the Open Lawn to better accommodate programming and events held at Depot Park.  The project cost was $456,991.  Oelrich Construction, Inc. was the general contractor for the project.  For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@gainesvillefl.gov.

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6400 NW 43rd Way

San Felasco Park now has a new play structure geared towards children between 5–12 years old. Work completed in July of 2020. The project cost was $28,915.  For more information, please contact John Weber, project manager, at 352-393-8186 or weberjf@gainesvillefl.gov.

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2700 NW 39th Ave.

Improvements to Springtree Park, located at 2700 NW 39^th Ave., completed in July of 2020.  The project included improved trails, park access improvements, a new playground, adult fitness stations, a deck overlooking Three Lakes Creek, a pavilion, park signage and much more! The project cost was $197,609.  For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@gainesvillefl.gov.

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3540 E. University Ave.

New Timucuan Indian living historical exhibits were constructed at Morningside Nature Center. The structures were built on June 16th  and 17th, 2020 by Big Kahuna Tiki Huts, Inc. in partnership with the Seminole Indian Tribe using hand-hewn cypress poles and freshly harvested cabbage palm fronds from the Florida Everglades. The project cost was $29,885. Click here to view photos of the new structures. For more information, please contact Pete McNiece, project manager, at 352-393-8544 or mcniecepr@gainesvillefl.gov. 

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321 NW 10th Street

A large pavilion with tables and an accessible path were erected at Sharmie Ffar Park in June 2020.  Click here to view photos of the new pavilion. The project cost was $43,842. For more information, please contact Pete McNiece, project manager, at 352-393-8544 or mcniecepr@gainesvillefl.gov. 

400 NE 16th Ave.

An irrigation well for the softball fields was installed at Tom Petty Park in early June of 2020. The project cost was $18,995. For more information, please contact John Weber, project manager, at 352-393-8186 or weberjf@gainesvillefl.gov.  

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111 East University Ave.

A new bike repair station and air pump were installed on the east side of the plaza by the Alachua County Civil Courthouse building. Additional bike racks accommodating up to 32 bikes were also installed throughout the plaza. The cost for the improvements was $6,600. The work was completed by City Park Operations staff in collaboration with the City’s Public Works Department Operations personnel.  The work took place in March and April of 2020.  For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@gainesvillefl.gov.

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1717 SE 15th St.

A wholesale renovation of the tennis courts at T.B. McPherson Park, located at 1717 SE 15th Street, completed in March of 2020. The work included demolition of the existing tennis courts, construction of new courts, and the installation of new nets, posts, perimeter fencing and windscreens. The cost of the project was $173,407. For more information, please contact Pete McNiece, project manager, at 352-393-8544 or mcniecepr@gainesvillefl.gov.

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5701 NW 34th Blvd.

Improvements to the disc golf bridge, between holes 6 and 7, took place in March of 2020.  The project cost was $9,500. For more information, please contact Pete McNiece, project manager, at 352-393-8544 or mcniecepr@gainesvillefl.gov.

1001 SE 12th St.

Work completed on drainage improvements at the fields between Abraham Lincoln Middle School and Joseph Williams Elementary School in February of 2020.  This project improved field conditions after heavy rainfall and allows for greater recreational use.  For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@gainesvillefl.gov.

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111 East University Ave.

Accessibility improvements completed at Bo Diddley Plaza in early 2020.  The work included replacement of existing uneven brick surfaces as well as some additional brickwork. The project cost was $130,000. For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@gainesvillefl.gov.

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3300 SE 15th St.

A new metal roof was installed in January of 2020 on the Boulware Springs Park pavilion.  American Roofing Company, a small, local business, was the contractor for the work. The project cost was $5,495. For more information, please contact Pete McNiece, project manager, at 352-393-8544 or mcniecepr@gainesvillefl.gov.

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700 NE 11th St.

Construction completed in January of 2020 on a neighborhood park located at 700 NE 11th Street. The new park includes a modern playground, a community garden, traveling rings, an obstacle course, picnic areas, and a memorial to Reserve Soldiers. Anglin Construction Company was the general contractor.  The project cost was $922,807. For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@gainesvillefl.gov.

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2841 E. University Ave.

Drainage and turf improvements completed in October of 2019 and the field reopened to the public.  Before this project, the field was holding water after significant rain events, making it unplayable for multiple days. Foresight Construction Group, Inc. oversaw the work with construction being facilitated by ZORRN Company, Inc. For more information, please contact John Weber, project manager, at 352-393-8186 or weberjf@gainesvillefl.gov.

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SW 40th Blvd to SW 34th St.

This trail project consisted of the construction of a 1,619 foot paved multiuse trail on the north side of SW 47th Avenue from SW 40th Boulevard to SW 34th Street. Construction began in September 2018 and completed in October 2019. The trail was constructed by Commercial Industrial Corp. and connects high-density residential areas to activity centers off of SW 34th Street. The project cost was $629,888. For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@gainesvillefl.gov.

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1912 NW 5th Ave.

Construction completed on Carolyn Beatrice Parker Park, a new neighborhood park, in August of 2019.  This project was in partnership with the School Board of Alachua County. Improvements included a new playground with outdoor musical instruments and climbing features, picnic tables and benches, trash and recycling containers, striped basketball courts and goals, and painting the covered pavilion. Decorative fencing was installed to prevent access to school buildings during non-school hours. The project cost was $268,579. For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@gainesvillefl.gov.

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520 NE 21st St.

The boardwalk replacement project in Duval Park completed in August of 2019. This project included the replacement of the wooden boardwalk that is part of a ½ mile walking loop within the park. AKEA, Inc. oversaw the work and construction was by Diversified Professional Service Corporation of Dade City, FL. The project cost was $476,226. For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@gainesvillefl.gov.

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924 SE 15th St.

Work completed on new concrete pads for new bleachers and dugouts, a 10’ homerun fence, new sidewalks, a new scoreboard and a new water bottle filler on the restroom building at Lincoln Park in the summer of 2019. The project cost was $85,127. For more information, please contact John Weber, project manager, at 352-393-8186 or weberjf@gainesvillefl.gov.

2100 NE 39th Ave.

Lighting was installed at the Ironwood Golf Course driving range.  Golf patrons are now able to utilize the driving range for extended hours.  This project completed in April 2019 and the project cost was $99,500. For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@gainesvillefl.gov.

874 SE 4th St.

This project consisted of the addition of a trail connection between the old RTS parking lot and the trail on the east side of Depot Park. Construction began in December 2018 and completed at the end of 2019. The project cost was $39,415. For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@gainesvillefl.gov.

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3540 E. University Ave.

Morningside Nature Center welcomed Zinnia, a Jersey Calf, to the farm in December of 2019.  Zinnia has a vibrant personality and she looks forward to meeting you. The project cost was $900. For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@gainesvillefl.gov.

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2841 E. University Ave.

The installation of new shade structures over the Fred Cone Park bleachers completed in June 2019. The canopy offers shaded seating for sports spectators and spans the full length of the bleachers, which can accommodate up to 360 people. The project cost was $75,275.00 and USA Shade Fabric Structures was the contractor for the work. For more information, please contact John Weber, project manager, at 352-393-8186 or weberjf@gainesvillefl.gov

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643 SW 40 St.

Improvements to  Green Acres Park  completed in May of 2019 and included a new playground, pavilion, picnic tables and benches, new adult outdoor fitness equipment and a sidewalk connecting all of the park amenities. For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@gainesvillefl.gov.

1352 SE 2nd St.

A clean-up day for this park took place on June 7, 2019, in partnership with Lowe’s and Neighborhood Housing Development Corporation. New benches, tables and a grill were installed, as well as fresh mulch for the playground. There was also a dedication ceremony that took place. The project cost was $9,845. For additional information, please contact John Weber, project manager, at 352-393-8186 or weberjf@gainesvillefl.gov.

25 SE 2nd Pl.

This project consisted of a number of safety and energy efficiency upgrades. The emergency communication system was replaced, lighting was upgraded to LED, the Box Office window was replaced, the second floor handrails were replaced and the exterior handicap ramp and exit tower railings were repaired. The project cost was $51,509. For more information, please contact Bob Robins, project manager, at 352-373-5968 or brobins@thehipp.org.

1108 NW 7th Ave.

This project consisted of renovating exterior storage, installing a security system on both buildings, and fabricating traveling exhibits and permanent exhibits. The project cost was $41,121. For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@gainesvillefl.gov.

302 NE 6th Ave.

This project consisted of replacing indoor and outdoor lighting, repairing the fountain, installing a bike rack and minor landscaping improvements. Future improvements to the museum and art galleries are anticipated. For more information, please contact Sarit Sela, project manager, at 352-393-8207 or selas@gainesvillefl.gov.

524 NW 1st St.

This project consisted of an interior renovation to include replacing the ceiling, doors and flooring, updating signage, expanding storage, replacing interior and exterior lighting and other general improvements.  For more information, please contact Russell Etling, project manager, at 352-393-8532 or etlingrh@gainesvillefl.gov.

2100 NE 39th Ave.

This project consisted of improving drainage to the fairways, adding additional equipment storage areas, installing a new restroom on the front 9, resealing the parking lot, cleaning ditches and ponds, repairing cart paths, replacing banquet room furnishings, lighting and carpet upgrades and other clubhouse renovations.  The project cost was $76,899. For more information, please contact Jeff Cardozo, project manager, at 352-334-2202 or Cardozojm@gainesvillefl.gov.

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924 SE 15th St.

This project consisted of multiple improvements to the park.  Field grading and other field improvements such as new bases, home plate and pitching rubber were installed during Spring Break week in 2018.  This work was completeby city staff. For more information, please contact John Weber, project manager, at 352-393-8186 or weberjf@gainesvillefl.gov.

Shade structures over playground equipment and other park amenities were installed at ten parks. The final installation of a shade structures completed in February of 2018.  

• T.B. McPherson Recreation Center’s tennis courts
• Depot Park
• Roper Park
• Rosa B. Williams Center
• Cofrin Nature Park
• Martin Luther King Jr. Multipurpose Center
• Cedar Grove Park
• Fred Cone Park
• Dwight H. Hunter (Northeast) Pool deck
• Porters Community Center
• T.B. McPherson Recreation Center.

This project, in conjunction with the sunscreen dispenser installation throughout city parks, encourages safe play and provides comfort for all users. The project cost was $375,952. For more information, please contact John Weber, project manager, at 352-393-8186 or weberjf@gainesvillefl.gov.

1001 NW 31st Dr.

Geothermal heating and cooling pumps were installed with the work completing in September of 2018.  Geothermal pumps in conjunction with solar blankets will allow the pool to remain open all year long.  The project cost was $329,448. For more information, please contact Betsy Waite, project manager, at 352-393-8187 or waiteed@gainesvillefl.gov.