Hogans Creek Wins Federal Funding Support

The city’s initiative will receive pilot funding and technical assistance to launch Groundwork Jacksonville to protect and improve the quality of life near Hogans Creek and other areas in the urban core.

“Groundwork Jacksonville can help us work together to enhance the neighborhoods and environment for Hogans Creek, Springfield and East Jacksonville,” Mayor Alvin Brown said. “I’m proud of the partnership and hard work that has led us to this point, and look forward to seeing Jacksonville continue to find solutions that benefit our community.”

The Groundwork Jacksonville Steering Committee was formed by representatives from city government, and environmental, neighborhood and civic groups to explore how public-private partnerships and community-based leadership can help improve historic Springfield, Hogans Creek and adjacent parks. The group later expanded to include East Jacksonville neighborhoods and Deer Creek.

“I am so grateful for the hard work of the city employees and representatives of all the nonprofits who came together to submit this application,” said Christina Parrish, chair of the Steering Committee. “I am convinced that a Groundwork Trust is the ideal vehicle for restoring Henry Klutho’s beautiful Springfield park system and activating the Hogans Creek Greenway, which will be a tremendous asset to downtown Jacksonville and all of the urban core.”

Springfield and East Jacksonville are the most environmentally challenged neighborhoods in the city, with more than 18 large-scale contaminated sites and more than 150 leaking underground storage tanks. Restoring Hogans Creek and the bordering Springfield parks has been a goal of city leaders hoping to recreate the “emerald necklace” championed by famed architect Henry Klutho in the early 20th Century.

“I believe that this grant is going to increase the quality of life for the residents of Springfield, East Jacksonville and the community as a whole, thus creating a safe, nurturing and recreational environment for our children,” said Dr. Johnny Gaffney, who represents Springfield and East Jacksonville on the City Council.