As the University of Florida advances a sweeping effort to modernize its campus and enhance pedestrian safety, two “gateway projects” are nearing completion that will make the campus entrances more pedestrian friendly and ultimately create approximately 86 acres of walkable, bicycle-friendly space. 

This summer, the Newell Gateway, formerly a service drive at Newell Drive and West University Avenue, will be a wide, tree-lined, pedestrian and cyclist thoroughfare to those walking or biking to and from the historic northeast end of campus. Further, the campus’ northeast entrance at Union Road and Southwest 13th Street will be a welcome court, providing car passenger drop off and limited parking adjacent to Tigert and Criser halls.

Collectively, the projects are expected to increase the safety of campus area inroads and are a part of UF’s boldest infrastructure venture in decades, known as the Strategic Campus Master Plan. With safety enhancements weaved throughout, the $1.6 billion initiative will unfold over the next 10 years, elevating UF’s physical space, bringing the university shoulder-to-shoulder with its national peers and boosting its global competitiveness and impact.

“At UF, we are embracing the future by evolving our physical spaces to ensure we’re keeping pace with modern expectations of campus offerings while also placing a focus on the safety of our campus community,” said Charlie Lane, UF senior vice president and chief operating officer. “The projects underway will transform the look and feel of our campus, make it far more welcoming and create an outdoor landscape that prioritizes pedestrians.” 

While the Master Plan, approved by UF’s Board of Trustees in December of 2020, is the guiding document for campus improvements, university officials expanded or accelerated several safety-related enhancements following the recent tragic losses of student lives. Officials have been taking a broader look at immediate and long-term improvements that could increase the safety of pedestrians on and around campus, Lane said. 

 Safety measures that are completed or underway include: 

Still ahead, UF is partnering with FDOT and the City of Gainesville to complete the following: 

As signified by these ongoing efforts, continuing to improve pedestrian safety near UF’s campus will remain a focal point for university and community leaders, alike.

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