GNV accepts federal $8 million award for safe streets and roads

Published on August 17, 2023

GAINESVILLE, Fla. (Aug. 17, 2023) – An $8 million award from the U.S. Department of Transportation will be used to transform part of University Avenue into a complete street offering improved pedestrian and cyclist safety, and accessibility for all users.

The Gainesville City Commission officially accepted the award during today’s meeting, advancing its Vision Zero initiative to eliminate traffic-related deaths and serious injuries in Gainesville by 2040.

“This is a big deal,” said Gainesville Mayor Harvey Ward. “There are more than 400 cities in Florida, and we are one of only three to receive a Safe Streets and Roads for All implementation grant, made possible through the Inflation Reduction Act.”

Alongside a $2 million local match, the federal funds will help convert a stretch of University Avenue between NW 12th and SE 31st streets into a roadway featuring dedicated bicycle lanes, raised crosswalks, transit stop improvements and slower traffic. The first phase of the project, resurfacing and restriping, is expected to begin in 2026.

The City currently is working in partnership with the Florida Department of Transportation and the University of Florida on a Preliminary Design and Environment study to advance the design and implementation of the project. The study is also assessing potential improvements along a 1.5 mile stretch of West 13 Street between NW 8th and SW 16th avenues. Earlier this year, the City scheduled a series of guided, corridor walks during which residents asked questions, shared concerns and provided feedback about the traffic-calming design approach. Additional opportunities for community engagement are planned later this year as part of the study. (More information is available at www.transformU13.com.) 

Acceptance of the federal award comes as University of Florida students begin arriving on campus before the start of fall semester classes as local agencies and organizations actively promote bicycle and pedestrian safety for newcomer, visitors and residents.

For additional information, please contact City of Gainesville Public Information Officer Rossana Passaniti at 352-393-7842 or PassanitiR1@GainesvilleFL.gov.