The Alachua County Board of County Commissioners announced Tuesday the launch of the three-year initiative called Forward Focus: Eastern Alachua County.
The initiative was designed to boost economic opportunities, enhance quality of life and address community needs in the easter part of Alachua County.
The county will hold a community input session to kick off the initiative. The session will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 24, at the Hawthorne Middle/High School (21403 SE 69th Ave., Hawthorne).
The session will be open to all residents, local leaders and businesses to provide an opportunity to share ideas and insights about the future of eastern Alachua County.
“We see incredible potential in eastern Alachua County,” said Assistant County Manager Missy Daniels in a release. “This initiative is about unlocking that potential by partnering with the community to create a brighter, more prosperous future for everyone.”
The Forward Focus initiative will focus on a range of issues, including:
- Economic development: Creating jobs and supporting local businesses.
- Community services: Ensuring access to essential services like healthcare, education, broadband and transportation.
- Infrastructure: Improving roads, bridges and other public facilities.
- Quality of life: Preserving natural resources, enhancing recreational opportunities and fostering a stronger sense of community.
At the Oct. 24 community input session, county staff will outline the project’s goals and timeline. Attendees will also have an opportunity to provide valuable feedback, which will guide the creation of a community-wide survey designed to capture the needs and aspirations of residents.
Additional community meetings will be held over the next year across eastern Alachua County as county staff gather input from residents and stakeholders to help develop a comprehensive plan for the project.