Alachua County invites residents and community members to a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the opening of the East Tumblin Creek and Forest Edge housing communities. The event will take place on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. at Forest Edge (4341 SW 13th St., Gainesville).
The Alachua County Commission approved the purchase of the former Budget Inn in February 2021 and the former Scottish Inns in December 2023 as part of a coordinated, communitywide response to homelessness that prioritizes individuals based on vulnerability and need. The former motels have since been transformed into safe, stable housing for some of the county’s most vulnerable residents. These projects reflect a growing nationwide best practice of repurposing motel properties into permanent housing to expand access and reduce homelessness.
“Providing safe, stable housing for our most vulnerable residents is not just a responsibility, it is one of Alachua County’s highest priorities,” said County Commission Chair Ken Cornell. “Projects like East Tumblin Creek and Forest Edge demonstrate the county’s commitment to reducing homelessness through proven, compassionate solutions.”
East Tumblin Creek, previously Budget Inn, is located at 4401 SW 13th St. in Gainesville and underwent a $5 million renovation. It includes 36 one-bedroom units, each with a kitchen, bathroom, and living space.
Forest Edge, previously Scottish Inns, is located next to East Tumblin Creek at 4341 SW 13th St. in Gainesville and was redeveloped through a $4.2 million project. It includes 31 efficiency units with kitchenettes, bathrooms and living spaces.
Amenities include a community center, a computer lab, library resources, and laundry facilities.
Referrals for tenancy will be coordinated through the Homeless Continuum of Care Coordinated Entry System to prioritize those with the greatest needs. Housing strategies include rapid rehousing, permanent supportive housing, housing choice vouchers and Veterans Administration supportive housing, along with services such as rental assistance, home visits, counseling, case management, advocacy, benefit coordination and financial budgeting support.
Read a feature story on the county’s housing efforts.
For more information, contact Alachua County Communications Director Mark Sexton at 352-264-6979 or msexton@alachuacounty.us.
