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Commission approves partnership with Hawthorne for proposed gymnasium facility
Summary
The commission approved a joint Wild Spaces Public Places and infrastructure grant to support a gymnasium in Hawthorne; city and community representatives said the facility would serve recreation, seniors and emergency sheltering.
The Alachua County Commission on March 11 approved a partnership with the city of Hawthorne to support a proposed gymnasium and community facility near the city’s athletic park.
Gina Peoples, assistant county manager and chief of staff, introduced the item and said Hawthorne’s request is for a gymnasium facility. Robert Thompson, Hawthorne’s city manager, told commissioners the city envisions locating the facility near the existing athletic park off State Road 20 and estimated it would need about “5 acres” initially for the building and parking. Thompson said the city plans to staff and run the facility with city personnel over time and would “ramp up” staffing as programs expand.
Public commenters supported the project. Larry McDaniel, who spoke during the public comment period, called the gym a long‑overdue “community effort” that could also serve as an emergency‑sheltering site. A caller, Robert Thompson (the city manager speaking from the phone), also described the facility’s potential as a regional gathering place for seniors, youth programs and community events.
Commissioner Cornell moved approval of staff recommendation; the motion received a second and passed. Commissioners and city officials discussed whether the site could be sized to accommodate future partnerships; Cornell noted a possible joint use with Santa Fe College as an idea to explore.
Why it matters: County staff said the facility would provide recreation and gathering space on the county’s east side and that Wild Spaces Public Places partnership funding can support infrastructure in smaller municipalities. Commissioners emphasized the facility’s potential role for youth programming and as a focal point for growth in eastern Alachua County.
Ending: The commission approved the partnership and budget motion; staff were directed to continue coordinating with Hawthorne officials on site details, final acreage and operation plans.
