About the Study

The proposed project involves a PD&E study (Phase 1) and Design (Phase 2) for the reconstruction of University Avenue (SR 26) between NW 22^nd Street and SE 31^st Street and W 13^th Street (SR 25) between SW 16^th Avenue and NW 8^th Avenue in Gainesville, Florida. The project length is approximately 4.0 miles along University Avenue (SR 26) and approximately 1.6 miles along W 13^th Street (SR 25). The proposed project seeks to transform both corridors into complete streets that facilitate safe and comfortable travel for all users.

In the past five years, there have been more than 175 crashes involving a pedestrian or bicyclist along the two project corridors. Approximately 86% of these crashes resulted in an injury or fatality. These crashes, injuries, and fatalities resulted in the City of Gainesville (“the City”) partnering with the Florida Department of Transportation, the University of Florida, and the community to conduct a Corridor Study for the two corridors. The first phase of the Corridor Study was concluded in October 2021 and the second phase of the Corridor Study (with extended project limits) was completed in April 2022. The Corridor Study identified preferred alternatives for both corridors and those concepts were unanimously approved by the City Commission in April 2022. This PD&E study will further assess those Corridor Study concepts and further engage the community as part of the PD&E process.

Transforming University Avenue and W 13^th Street into complete streets through the project study area will require balancing the needs of all users within a limited right of way. The corridor study concept plans that were approved by the City Commission will require extensive coordination with stakeholders, residents, and adjacent property owners.

Project Goals:

Reconstruct University Avenue (SR 26) and W 13^th Street (SR 25) as complete streets that are safe and equitable for all users.
Increase roadway safety and prioritize people versus cars with the goal of preventing the occurrence of severe and fatal crashes.
Enhance accessibility for cyclists and pedestrians.
Enhance accessibility to transit services.
Reduce disparities and increase availability of transportation options to disadvantaged communities.
Focus on safety and speed management, mobility and access, placemaking and community development.
Coordinate with key stakeholders and engage the public in order to facilitate the community vision and foster effective communication with the public.