GAINESVILLE, FL (352today.com) – The Gainesville City Commission approved a plan to renovate the “Streatery” on SW 1st Ave., between S. Main St. and SW 2nd St., creating a walkable, pedestrian-friendly space that will host art festivals, farmers markets, and food-truck rallies. This corridor was initially closed to vehicles during the pandemic to provide more outdoor dining and has since evolved into a popular venue for events.
The redesign will feature a curbless street layout with new outdoor lighting, drainage improvements, and ADA-compliant upgrades. It will also add 40 electrical outlets specifically for food trucks and plant six new trees along the pathway while preserving 11 existing live oaks. Construction is set to begin in late 2025.
“The City is excited to move forward with the next phase of this project,” said Andrew Persons, Chief Operating Officer of Gainesville. “The Streatery has the potential to be a true downtown gem. We’re looking forward to making the improvements needed to turn it into a long-lasting and valuable community asset.”
Once completed, the Streatery will be a dedicated pedestrian zone, permanently closed to traffic and parking. The project’s estimated cost of $2.4 to $2.8 million will be refined as staff return with funding options early next year.
A public workshop is scheduled later this year to gather community input on design elements.