Gainesville Innovation Square

By: Ron Wayne If you build it, they will come. That’s the idea behind Innovation Square, created by the University of Florida on the former site of the Alachua General Hospital between UF and downtown Gainesville. University and city leaders hope this field of dreams becomes a thriving community where researchers can work, live and...

New companies and developments at Innovation Square are increasing the demand for local goods and services, allowing businesses all over Gainesville to expand their workforces and invest in other local organizations. “We used to be surrounded by empty buildings and undeveloped lots,” said Omar Oselimo, who owns Reggae Shack Café, a restaurant in Innovation Square,...