The City Council approved Resolution 2025-291 directing the City Administration and the Downtown Investment Authority to immediately pursue the direct purchase of the 2.85± acre parcel at 801 W. Bay Street from 801 Bay St LLC. This action will support the creation of a new University of Florida graduate campus in Downtown Jacksonville’s LaVilla District. The resolution authorizes use of $8 million appropriated by Ordinance 2025-135-E and requires the city to abandon any land swap efforts in favor of a direct purchase. Upon acquisition, the property will be conveyed to UF under a Redevelopment Agreement for development of multi-building academic, research, and workforce programs. Negotiations will be guided by two city-obtained appraisals to establish a fair purchase price. The decision underscores the city’s commitment to higher education, research, and economic development downtown. It also streamlines the acquisition process to meet the August 2025 opening timeline for initial classes. The use of emergency passage ensures timely action and avoids delays that could compromise the project schedule.