St. Johns County Making Progress on $30 Million Infrastructure Improvements in Hastings

Since St. Johns County took over the Town of Hastings after it’s dissolution in 2018, the Board of County Commissioners has been committed to improving infrastructure in the area. 

At a Board of County Commissioners meeting earlier this year, St. Johns County Utility Director Neal Shinkre gave an update on the status of $30 million worth of improvement projects in Hastings.

“The essence of economic development and revitalization starts with infrastructure and when it comes to infrastructure delivery, this board has made it clear; let’s get it done,” said Shinkre.

Two out of the three utility projects approved by the Board of County Commissioners have been completed: the $5.75 million wastewater facility and $2.8 million in sewer upgrades including lift stations and collection systems throughout Hastings. The third project will provide electrical upgrades to the Hastings water treatment plant. It is currently in construction and anticipated to be completed end of 2024. 

American Recovery Plan Act (ARPA) Funds in the amount of $7 million were designated for Hastings utility projects, including a diesel fire pump and at the water treatment plant, construction of more than 8,000 feet of water transmission mains to the Main Street and Hastings High School (First Coast Technical College building) vicinity. It also includes the completion of design for a future 8,000-foot water main that will complete a water main loop, increasing fire protection and water pressure around Hastings.

Additionally, the St. Johns County Utility Department is in the process of upgrading its utility building on Main Street. This project includes a new roof, exterior painting and parking lot resurfacing. This space will be available for public meetings and the renovations help further the goal of revitalizing Main Street.

The Public Works Department recently completed construction on a new drainage system under East St. Johns Avenue and North Orange Street and widened the Big Sooey Channel. This project has reduced flooding in populated areas, improved stormwater drainage and created a new stormwater pond for additional storage. The $4.4 million budget used CDBG-DR grant funds for design and construction.

Approximately $7 million is being invested into pavement management to create almost two miles of new sidewalks, increasing the level of service to commuters and enhancing the quality of life in Hastings.

Major progress has been made toward a new Hastings Library and Community Center. The building will include a children and teen area, public computers with internet and Wi-Fi access, reference service, public meeting rooms and HHS services. Construction will begin in July of 2024 with anticipated construction completion August 2025.

To see all current Capital Improvement Projects across the County visit the public online dashboard. For information about the St. Johns County Economic Development Department, visit www.sjcfl.us/economicdevelopment.