Here are some topics from the last Board of County Commissioners meeting. If you want to know more about what was discussed and decided, you can read the agendas and minutes as they get posted. You can watch the meeting in full on our Facebook page .
Identifying ways to enhance the Blanding Boulevard Corridor
The ULI Technical Assistance Panel Study for the Blanding Boulevard Corridor is complete. The long-term vision for the area is economic growth, revitalization of commercial and residential areas, sound development practices, and livability, all compatible with existing land use and public facilities. Near-term recommendations include revising the sign ordinance, creating a Blanding Corridor Development District, and upgrading traffic signals, crosswalks, and lighting. Private sector recommendations include developing a Blanding Boulevard Business Improvement District. Long-term goals include working with Clay Electric for underground utility placement, adding green spaces, enhancing mixed-use activities at the Wells Road, Kingsley Avenue, and College Drive intersections, and working with regional transportation agencies on improving traffic safety, mobility, and future modes of transportation. More information is available at the 22:12-minute mark.
What can the Small Business Development Center do for you?
The Florida SBDC at UNF provides confidential consultation and training to small business owners. They offer assistance in all stages of a business life cycle, such as business plans, access to capital, financial management, marketing, and more. They connect small businesses with resources to help them become more successful and contribute positively to the area's economic growth. They also partner with our Clay County libraries to hold free quarterly training events throughout our community. In 2023, the SBDC helped 2,100 small businesses in NE Florida secure $2.5 million in capital, created or retained 129 jobs, helped 17 new businesses start, hosted 25 workshops and events, and provided 1,350 hours of consulting. Visit their website to learn more. Listen to the discussion at the 30:00-minute mark.
New fire station in Green Cove Springs will soon be under construction
Commissioners approved the phase two construction agreement with Ajax Building Company, LLC to construct fire station 20 in Green Cove Springs. This station will be located off US 17 where the old Health Department building currently stands. Commissioners secured the guaranteed maximum price (GMP) of $11.6 million for this new state-of-the-art fire station. The GMP includes the demolition of certain older structures along with new construction. Substantial completion is anticipated by May 30, 2025. The County expects firefighters and equipment to move into the new station by June 30, 2025. You can listen to the discussion at 2:10:12.
Drainage Improvements to begin at Walter Odum and Ronnie Van Zant Parks
Commissioners approved bid awards for two drainage improvement projects. Besch and Smith Civic Group Inc. was awarded a bid for $1.3 million for the removal of existing drainage features and construction of a new more effective drainage system for Walter Odum Park in Orange Park. This project will increase the playability and resiliency of the playing fields and park. Work will be underway soon with project completion expected by September 30, 2024. Brothers Marine Construction Inc. was awarded a $577,000 bid for dock stabilization and erosion control measures at Ronnie Van Zant Park in Green Cove Springs. The purpose of this project is to rejuvenate the banks of the pond and prevent future erosion. Work will take approximately 165 days to complete from the agreement's effective date. Both projects will be completed using American Rescue Plan Act Funds. The discussion starts at 2:13:45 minutes if you want to learn more.
