Lakeland earns a Runner Friendly Community designation

See how Lakeland’s running trails and local support earned made it a Runner Friendly Community for the next five years.

A silhouetted runner on Lake Hollingsworth at sunset

RRCA considers available trails, like the one at Lake Hollingsworth.

During the Monday, Feb. 5 city commission meeting, Lakeland was awarded a Runner Friendly Community designation from the Road Runners Club of America (RRCA). The city will hold the designation for at least the next five years, ensuring that it continues to be a runner’s paradise.

RRCA takes applications for Runner Friendly Communities twice a year, considering infrastructure, support from the community + government, and additional support for runners. Cities must re-apply for the designation every five years and, not to brag, but there aren’t any others currently active in Florida.

Sarah Kozul presented the city with the designation, recognizing the efforts of the Lakeland Runners Club in partnership with the city and spots like Bonnet Springs Park to offer running opportunities for Lakelanders.

Ready to run? Lace up your shoes and check out our guide to running in Lakeland.