Alachua County seeks community input for future park at West End

Press release from Alachua County

ALACHUA COUNTY, Fla. – Alachua County is hosting a community engagement event that will help shape the future recreational park plans at the former West End Golf Course site.

The event will be held on Aug. 13, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. at the University of Florida/IFAS Extension Office auditorium (22712 W. Newberry Road, in Newberry) and offers an opportunity for residents to give suggestions on the planned park’s layout and amenities.

Those unable to attend the meeting can provide input by emailing parks@alachuacounty.us or calling 352-264-6847.

“This will be a transformative park planned by and for our residents,” said Parks and Open Space Director Jason Maurer. “We hope the community comes out and offers their input for this important project.”

Site update

Residents may have noticed crews working at the 75-acre site (12830 W. Newberry Road) over the past few weeks.

Since Alachua County took ownership of the property on June 14, the Public Works and Parks and Open Space departments have been working together to help prepare the site as a needed secondary venue for the upcoming 2025 World Masters Athletic Indoor Championship in March 2025.

The weeklong event will be held from March 23-30 and is anticipated to bring in thousands of participants and spectators from around the world, with about 60% of the attendees coming from outside the country. Immediate site plans call for the installation of an outdoor cross-country track and discus, javelin, and hammer throwing areas.

“Time is of the essence on this project,” said Public Works Director Ramon Gavarrete.

Over the past few weeks, the county’s Road and Bridge Division helped mow down the severely overgrown vegetation and properly backfilled sinkholes that opened up while the golf course was closed.

Following a thorough inspection of hazardous materials, crews also knocked down the structures on site due to their severely dilapidated conditions.

“It’s exciting to be part of West End’s transformation,” said Dwight Thomas, an equipment operator. “Good things are coming to Alachua County.”

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