COMMUNITY LIFE & MAIN STREET REVITALIZATION Alachua’s quality of life shines through its recreational gems and vibrant Main Street. The crown jewel is Legacy Park, a 105-acre facility opened in 2017. “It’s a top-notch facility and one of the largest in the County,” says Valladares. Its 40,000-square-foot gymnasium, amphitheater, and multipurpose fields serve as a hub for residents. This complements the longstanding Hal Brady Recreation Complex, forming what Valladares describes as “the original home of Alachua’s recreation program.” The city’s beating heart remains its historic Main Street. “The primary focus of our Community Redevelopment Agency is creating a vibrant downtown district,” explains Valladares. “Their projects range from beautification to helping prevent and remediate blighted areas within the corridor.” The Main Street’s unique winding layout, free from highway traffic, allows for easy closures for events. “It’s unique because it’s no longer a major thoroughfare,” Valladares explains, “It is conducive to hosting special events because it doesn’t cause a large burden on traffic.” The city frequently uses this unique ability to close streets for beloved community events. “We have an annual harvest festival, a tree lighting, and a Christmas parade that the community looks forward to,” Valladares notes, highlighting how these gatherings strengthen Alachua’s small-town character. Initiatives like facade renovation grants help local businesses thrive, preserving what Valladares calls “an historic and diverse main street” of mom-andpop shops, consignment stores, and tech-forward spaces like Michele Lee’s Good Life Station, a smart city café.“It is evolving,”Valladares adds.“Businesses are starting to find a good balance in what they offer to the community.” ECONOMIC BOOM: OPEN FOR BUSINESS Alachua’s economic landscape thrives on diversity and entrepreneurial energy. “The City is absolutely open for business,” says Economic Development 3 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 07 ALACHUA, FL
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