City of Gainesville gives neighbors free ADU plans and announces groundbreaking ceremony
Press release from the City of Gainesville
GAINESVILLE, Fla. – The City of Gainesville is proud to announce the launch of a new initiative to give neighbors free plans to build their own accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Under the direction of Gainesville City Manager Cynthia W. Curry, this program is a collaboration between the Department of Sustainable Development and the Department of Housing & Community Development. It aims to enhance affordable housing options in Gainesville and offer flexible living solutions to families and individuals throughout the community.
The results could be far-reaching, as the City’s Land Development Code permits the inclusion of ADUs in most residential zoning districts, promoting diverse and affordable housing choices virtually everywhere. The ADUs will fit seamlessly into existing neighborhoods, as each must comply with zoning standards including size limitations, design compatibility with the primary residence, and adherence to building codes.
To showcase the potential of these designs, the City is building two prototype ADUs—one attached and one detached—at a City-owned property. These will serve as examples for homeowners interested in adding an ADU to their own property. To make that easier, the City will release the design plans to the public at no charge. Permit expeditors will help applicants access the free plans and complete the steps necessary to obtain a permit.
A groundbreaking ceremony to mark the beginning of construction on the two initial units is a celebration for the community and an opportunity to learn more about how ADUs can be integrated into existing properties.
When: Wednesday, April 30, at 10 a.m.
Where: 738 NW Seventh St.
Key Features of the ADU Initiative:
- Complimentary ADU Plans: Residents can access professionally designed ADU plans at no cost, simplifying the process of adding an ADU to their property.
- Diverse Design Options: The available plans include various configurations, such as studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom units, including ADA-accessible options, which may be constructed as either attached or detached ADUs, catering to different needs and property types.
- Flexible Living Solutions: ADUs offer versatile housing options, whether for accommodating elderly family members, providing independent space for young adults, or generating rental income.
- Enhanced Affordability: By utilizing existing land and infrastructure, ADUs present a cost-effective approach to increasing the city’s affordable housing stock.
Homeowners whose new ADUs will be rented affordably to low-income households can receive construction subsidies offered through the primary federal funding source, HOME-ARP. Those building to rent affordably also can apply for funding from the City’s ConnectFree Program to offset the cost of connecting utilities. Renters who qualify for these affordable units can include veterans, neighbors who have been experiencing homelessness or are at risk of homelessness, and survivors of domestic violence or human trafficking.
The Gainesville City Commission has allocated $400,000 from the City’s General Fund to support the ADU initiative. The City will develop ADUs on five existing sites, and the completed units will be offered to qualifying renters as affordable housing. Increasing affordable housing opportunities and revitalizing neighborhoods by expanding housing options are priorities included in the City’s strategic plan.
For detailed information on accessory dwelling units and how to build one on your property in the City of Gainesville, review the city’s Guide to Permitting ADUs or contact the Building Division of the Department of Sustainable Development at 352-334-5050 or building@gainesvillefl.gov.
Interesting… Great way to add an in-law suite or guest suite and when not in use, rent out. Good way to generate extra income to pay these high property taxes – unless they increase your property taxes now that you have an ADU – bahaha.
Of course your taxes will go up
More red tape, than has been said.
And insurance bills from adding renters. Best to add relatives on fixed incomes, like retirees.
Is this really something Gainesville government should be involved with?
Most don’t think so.
Yes if you want more GRU/tax revenues spread over more peeps in existing city limits. They need that to pay for wish lists.
I just love the way our city leaders keep proving that they really don’t need the 32 million dollar payout they were stealing from GRU. They keep finding the money somewhere. These initiatives also seem to be opening the city to lawsuits by being overly ($400,000.00) involved with the cost and designs.
Explains why they were standing in front of Publix selling cookies the other day…
First thing need to do is define “affordable.”
Until they do, this is just a means for someone who has the ability and means to make money, to make more money.
“Affordable housing” is defined by the govt. Look it up.
30% of income but some of us know how the City tends to move the goalposts. I’m pretty sure the owner who builds the ADU determines who is able to live there. If this goes the way of most City ideas, it’s more likely to be something far less desirable wrapped in sheep’s clothing.
This is more likely to create discriminatory housing. I don’t see many people housing certain people in their backyards any more than I see them offering a room for the homeless in their homes until they’re able to get a job.
On a side note, did that City owned, affordable home sell a year or so back? The land remained property of the City if I remember correctly with the home being the only asset that could be sold, (only to specific qualifying people).
To this group of spend as much as you can liberals ‘affordable’ is defined as how much tax $$ they can abscond with . They simply won’t stop until the voters decide what is enough.
Notice the City doesn’t mention easing of permits, fees and runarounds in this attempt to put Section 8 people and families in your yards. Isn’t that a great idea?
To use for a family member, such as an elderly Parent, is one thing, but to make them a rental in a single family neighborhood, is quite another. Sounds like trouble in the making.
In other news, they are offering free* tasty worms to local fish (some strings attached).
* paid for by taxpayers
Interesting demonstration project. I wonder what issues ADUs will open up that don’t currently exist such as additional strain on infrastructure and increased density. Not everyone will be able to benefit from the additional income from ADUs of course.