Jacksonville University

Campus Infrastructure Improvements

Background

Jacksonville University, founded in 1934, is a private liberal arts college that enrolls approximately 4,000 students across more than 70 programs, ranging from bachelor’s degrees to doctoral programs. It is the oldest and largest private master’s university in the North Florida and South Georgia region. Recognized by U.S. News & World Report as one of the South’s “America’s Best Colleges” for more than 10 consecutive years, Jacksonville University’s mission is to empower students for lifelong growth as global citizens through a transformative, innovative educational experience rooted in excellence and community-centered service.

Challenge

Jacksonville University faced urgent infrastructure challenges:

Repeated “fire watch” incidents due to low water pressure, leaving sprinklers effectively out of service and requiring 24-hour staff standby.
An inadequate water supply from the city unable to support the entire campus.
A failing water distribution system requiring immediate replacement to protect safety and operations.

Jacksonville University sought a way to upgrade its critical infrastructure without draining financial resources.

Project Description

Since partnering with Sustainability Partners in July 2020, Jacksonville University has transformed its infrastructure through a series of projects under Sustainability Partners’ Infrastructure as a Service® and Capital Recovery Service™ models:

Water System Upgrades
- Purchase of new water tanks by Sustainability Partners through Capital Recovery Service™, relieving Jacksonville University of ownership and maintenance costs.
- Procurement, installation, and ongoing care of efficient water distribution systems, pumps, generator, and controls.
Campus Improvements
- Lift station and forced main wastewater pipeline
- Regrading of roads and underground drainage for sports facilities
- Elevated boardwalk construction
- Mapping and repair of campus sewer lines
Completed Recreational Projects
- New swimming pool
- New recreational and amenity building with modern mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems
- New sand volleyball courts

Impact

Through its partnership with Sustainability Partners, Jacksonville University has realized major benefits:

Zero upfront cost — Jacksonville University pays a simple monthly usage fee.
Safe, reliable, and modernized infrastructure across campus.
Fully pressurized fire water system, eliminating fire watch requirements.
Accelerated delivery of high-quality design, engineering, construction, and training.
Flexibility to add future projects seamlessly under the master contract.

Jacksonville University today is a thriving campus of energy and academia. With each completed project, Sustainability Partners helps ensure the University’s infrastructure is reliable, safe, and continuously improving — advancing both Jacksonville University’s mission and Sustainability Partners’ commitment to long-term sustainable infrastructure.