As Gainesville continues to innovate and attract new businesses, many of which are in the tech fields, much of the downtown and immediate surrounding areas are getting a facelift. This is great news for those where downtown is the place they live, work or play. And while we all know the stress that is dealing with construction zones, many of these changes are for the greater good… or should we say Gator good?
The Depot Avenue Segment Two Project is a great example of this and one that will have a positive effect for many of our apartment renters in the coming years. According to the Gainesville Public Works website, the purpose of the project is the complete reconstruction of this segment of the roadway, from SW 11th Street to Main Street. This includes adding a two-lane divided roadway, several roundabouts and improved landscaping. Construction began in May of 2014 and is expected to wrap up later this year.
We were able to speak with Christy Cruz, General Manager at Royal Village apartments in Gainesville, who's been able to see the progression of these updates first-hand,to ask her about this project and the benefits she sees it bringing for her residents and the surrounding community.
(Photo Credit: The Independent Florida Alligator)
Royal Village is located at the corner of Depot Road and 6th Street and she mentioned the road closures have made it difficult for students to find the community temporarily, but that she's excited about what the project will bring to those living in the area.
"The main access was blocked off for a bit of time. It made it hard for students to find us especially if they were using a GPS," explains Cruz. It also affected current residents because they had to move the bus stop to a further location. But it's back now."
When asked what she was most excited about upon completion, Cruz responded, "I'm excited about how open everything will look. It will beautify the street. In the past the lighting has been a complaint. Residents will have a lit path."
Lighting was definitely a problem in the past as residents and their parents didn't feel comfortable or safe with students walking the area, especially at night.
So what can residents to this area look forward to very soon? "Definitely looking forward to no more construction," Cruz laughs. "And cleaner, brand new streets, prettier landscaping, improved aesthetics, and a lit pathway."
February 28th is the date set for construction on both Depot Road and 6th Street to be complete.
Interested in living in one of the area's apartments? Check out some of these communities that will be enjoying the benefits of these improvements:
Royal Village
Just blocks from UF, downtown and Sorority Row, this all-inclusive community has private bed, baths and everything else you need to live the ideal Gator lifestyle
2nd Avenue Center
Situated in between the heart of downtown and UF, this community is ideal for students wanting furnished apartments with all the amenities
The Continuum
The official graduate and professional housing partner of the University of Florida with upgraded amenities and all-inclusive pricing
Arlington Square
Steps from downtown's Union Street Station, check out this property is you want to be close to UF but even closer to all the action