SOUTHWEST NATURE PARK
COMING SOON
The Southwest Nature park will be open to the public in 2026
NEIGHBORHOOD WORKSHOP NOTICE
A neighborhood workshop will be held to discuss a combined Preliminary/Final Development Plan to develop the GRU Southwest Nature Park on Alachua County tax parcel numbers 04433-000-000 and 04433-003-001 on approx. 76.22 acres located at 3488 SW 122nd St. The future land use map designation is Rural/Agriculture and the zoning is ‘A’ (Agriculture). This is not a public hearing. The purpose of this meeting is to inform neighboring property owners of the proposal and to seek their comments. The meeting will be held virtually as a Zoom teleconference. The teleconference can be accessed by the following information:
Date: Thursday, October 26, 2023
Time: 6:00 PM
URL: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/5733319527
Meeting ID: 573 331 9527
Dial-in by Phone: (386) 347-5053
Contact: Sergio Reyes, P.E. eda consultants, inc.
permitting@edafl.com (352) 373-3541
Project Information
Gainesville Regional Utilities (GRU) and its partners, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP), Suwannee River Water Management (SRWMD) and Alachua County, are creating a Nature Park. The home of the 75 acre future park is located on the west side of Parker Road immediately north the Diamond Sports Park.
Artistic rendering of the future Southwest Nature Park
The project will help replenish, or recharge, the Floridan aquifer, which will benefit the Santa Fe River, its springs and our community.
Shallow areas planted with wetland plants
The park will have a series of shallow areas planted with wetland plants that are hydrated with high-quality reclaimed water. Reclaimed water is sometimes also called reuse water, irrigation water or “purple pipe” water. Natural processes in the constructed wetlands will filter the water and reduce nutrients to low levels before percolating the water into the soil and replenishing the groundwater below. The groundwater recharge will boost aquifer levels and help support flows at the Santa Fe River and surrounding springs.
Surrounded by paths that can be used for recreation
The shallow wetlands will be surrounded by paths that can be used for passive recreation like walking, jogging, wildlife viewing, photography, environmental education and more. The FDEP and SRWMD are funding partners for the design and construction of the wetland system. Alachua County plans to partner with GRU to manage public access and, at a future date, plans to fund and construct amenities such as restrooms, a playground, and enhanced parking. The park will be open to the public in 2026.
Project Interviews
Gainesville Regional Utilities (GRU) – Using water resources and enhancing the community.
Project News
NEIGHBORHOOD WORKSHOP NOTICE
A neighborhood workshop will be held to discuss a combined Preliminary/Final Development Plan to develop the GRU Southwest Nature Park.
