Army Reserve equipment site nearing completion in Gainesville

GAINESVILLE, Fla. (WCJB) - An Army Reserve Equipment Concentration Site in Gainesville is nearing completion at the former Alachua County Fairgrounds on 39th Avenue and Waldo Road.

The $36 million facility has been in discussion since 2020, though officials did not break ground until 2022. Government shutdowns during the construction process contributed to delays, according to Alachua County Economic Development Manager Sean McLendon.

“And it’s been a difficult task for them to find just the right geographical location and the right mix of available property. So that and problems with government shutdowns that occurred during the process of construction have delayed the overall work, but they’re making good progress out there,” McLendon said.

Jobs and training

The site is expected to bring at least 60 permanent skilled jobs to the area. Santa Fe College is offering a curriculum for heavy diesel mechanic training in connection with the facility.

Hurricane response

Army Reserve officials said the location was selected in part because it allows for easy access to interstates and northern states. Much of the equipment stored at the site will be used to assist during and after hurricanes.

Officials said they hope to open the site in late fall.

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