About the City of Lawtey
The City of Lawtey is a small city located in Bradford County, in North Central Florida. It is situated along U.S. Route 301, about 30 miles north of Gainesville and roughly 50 miles southwest of Jacksonville. The town is part of the Jacksonville metropolitan area but maintains a more rural character.
Key Features:
- Population: As of the 2020 census, Lawtey had a population of about 1,000 residents. The town has experienced limited growth, retaining a quiet, small-town atmosphere.
- History: Lawtey was founded in the late 1800s, and its name is believed to come from William J. Lawtey, a local landowner and railroad promoter. The arrival of the railroad played a significant role in the town’s early development, and agriculture, particularly the production of citrus and timber, was a key part of its economy.
- Economy: Lawtey’s economy is primarily agricultural, with some small businesses and industries serving the local area. Many residents commute to nearby towns for work, particularly to Gainesville or Jacksonville.
- Government: Lawtey operates as a city with a city council form of government. Its local government is responsible for services like water, sewer, and zoning within the city limits.
- Community and Lifestyle: The town has a tight-knit community, with a slower pace of life compared to larger cities nearby. There are local churches, small shops, and community gatherings, offering residents a rural lifestyle with access to larger urban areas for amenities and services.
Attractions and Nearby Areas:
- Lake Sampson: Located to the south of Lawtey, this lake offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, including boating and fishing.
- Close to Nature: The surrounding area is rich in natural beauty, including forests and wetlands, making it attractive for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Gainesville and Jacksonville: Lawtey benefits from its proximity to these larger cities. Gainesville is home to the University of Florida and offers cultural attractions, while Jacksonville is a larger metropolitan area with access to beaches, entertainment, and a vibrant arts scene.
Education:
- Lawtey is served by the Bradford County School District, which provides access to local schools for younger residents. For higher education, nearby universities like the University of Florida in Gainesville are accessible.
In summary, Lawtey is a quiet, rural town that offers a slower pace of life while being close enough to larger cities like Jacksonville and Gainesville for access to additional amenities. It is ideal for those seeking a small-town environment in North Florida.
Lawtey City Council Meetings are held at 7:00 PM at Lawtey City Hall on the First Monday of the month unless rescheduled or cancelled.
Olive Street Bridge Replacement
Starting Tuesday, February 17, 2026, construction will begin to replace Olive Street Bridge. Olive Street will be closed to traffic at Olive and Jackson Street for approximately 2 months. Also, Jackson Street will be closed from Grove to Olive for staging.
Please make alternate plans for travel.
We appreciate your patience will improvements are being made.