2024 was a very productive year for the county’s efforts to invest in East Gainesville and the eastern portion of the county.
A cornerstone of this effort is transforming the site of the old fairgrounds near the airport into the U.S. Army Reserve equipment concentration site.
The fairground relocation was a strategic step to boost economic development and create quality jobs for our community. It’s also a key part of the county’s ongoing efforts to revitalize East Gainesville through thoughtful investments and partnerships. The main event at the fairgrounds is the annual Youth Fair, which highlights the achievements of our future farmers and ranchers. Relocating it to a more rural setting, close to the county’s Agricultural Cooperative Extension/IFAS building, just made sense.
The U.S. Army Reserve equipment concentration site project brings:
- A $36 million federal investment: The project will create over 60 high-paying jobs with great benefits and an estimated $3 million annual payroll. The construction and operation of this facility will also generate significant local economic activity.
- Workforce training opportunities: Partnering with Santa Fe College, we’re launching a heavy diesel mechanics program in Fall 2025 to train residents for high-demand, high-paying careers tied to this facility.
The fairgrounds move is just one part of a bigger picture for East Gainesville. Other major efforts include:
- The Gainesville Community Reinvestment Area (GCRA): While the City of Gainesville administers the GCRA and does a good job publicizing its projects, many don’t know that Alachua County is the largest contributor to this $70.7 million, 10-year initiative whose goal is to bring transformative projects and development to East Gainesville.
- UF Health Urgent Care Center – Eastside: In an innovative partnership with UF and the City of Gainesville, Alachua County contributed $2.25 million to support the development of this state-of-the-art healthcare facility, significantly improving access to quality medical care for East Gainesville residents.
- The East Gainesville Legacy Project: The county is devoting millions of dollars to developing housing in Northeast Gainesville to address critical needs.
- Forward Focus: Eastern Alachua County: This initiative, currently in the community engagement phase, is designed to address longstanding disparities and unlock the region's economic potential.
These projects demonstrate the county’s dedication to attracting investment, creating jobs, and supporting sustainable growth in East Gainesville and eastern Alachua County.
For more information, contact Alachua County Communications Director Mark Sexton at 352-264-6979 or msexton@alachuacounty.us.
