Since January, steady construction and subsequent traffic reroutes at the intersection of Campus Drive and University Parkway have affected university commuters and visitors.

“[The new entrance’s construction] can make traffic an inconvenience,” said a student who requested anonymity.

The $2 million project, funded by UWF’s Campus Improvement Trust Fund, is expected to conclude “sometime in mid-October,” according to Institutional Communications.

Marquis Latimer + Halback Inc. conceptualized and planned the redesign of the main entrance, officially beginning the design phase in February 2023.

In their proposed campus landscape master plan, ML+H outlines that the new entrance “will orient students, faculty, and the community within the ‘University meets State Park’ setting.”

“The expectation is that this may become a significant draw for visitors, alumni, and students alike.”

Not only will the new entryway add visual flair to the main entrance, but it will also become a prime location for on-campus photo ops.

“The gateway project, supported in part by our students, presents a fresh new design that allows for an iconic area where the campus community can pose for memorable photos,” UWF President Martha Saunders said. “When you set foot on campus, there is no doubt you will know you have arrived!”