City Invests Millions in UNF & Local Projects

A significant $15 million funding package is poised for council approval, channeling much-needed investment into the University of North Florida's stadium and other crucial community initiatives. The legislation allocates $6 million for the first phase of a multi-phase renovation of UNF's stadium. This initial investment will address deferred maintenance like HVAC replacement and establish two new soccer practice fields, with future phases planned for a stadium canopy.

The city's investment is structured to leverage additional state and private funding for subsequent renovation stages. Councilmember Raul Arias highlighted that the UNF stadium's track and field facilities will remain publicly accessible. Beyond UNF, the package dedicates $9 million to vital projects, including a new community center at Edward Waters University, workforce development programs at FSCJ, and a training center for the Northeast Florida Builders Association.

These city-wide improvements are anticipated to yield substantial economic benefits, with UNF's stadium upgrades alone projected to increase its annual economic impact to $15 million. Councilmember Arias emphasized the bill's broad reach, calling it a "true win for Jacksonville" that supports both educational institutions and economic growth, ensuring UNF can continue to host significant NCAA and public events.