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Lakeland officials approve major plans for Midtown

Before a planned redevelopment of Memorial Boulevard, Lakeland officials have approved a strategic plan and a nearby affordable housing development.

An artist's drawing showing a revitalized street corner with a Memorial Square sign, mixed-use buildings, and a lively courtyard

This artist’s illustration is just a concept, but it shows how the corner of Memorial Boulevard + North Florida Avenue could be transformed.

The Midtown redevelopment district was top of mind for city officials in the Monday, July 7 City Commission meeting. Commissioners adopted a long-term strategic plan for Memorial Boulevard that could change the landscape of the largest Lakeland Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) district, and they approved an affordable housing development near its medical corridor.

Corridor map of Lakeland’s Memorial Boulevard redesign, showing gateways, corridor features, and urban zones labeled live, work, and play.

The plan covers Gateway Boulevard from I-4 to Bonnet Springs Park, Downtown Gateway from the park to Lakes Church, and Lakefront Parkway stretching east to the Charles Larsen Memorial Power Plant on Lake Parker.

Memorial Boulevard vision

The Florida Department of Transportation plans to redesign these 6.1 miles of US-92 in 2028. Before shovels break ground, the CRA and consulting firm Ayres Associates gathered community feedback to define a vision for three sections of Memorial Boulevard:

  • Gateway Boulevard — Combining industry with innovation through maker spaces + improved connectivity to Bonnet Springs Park
  • Downtown Gateway — Evolving the street from a busy drive-through area to a walkable Main Street with revitalized lots, walkability, and retro flair
  • Lakefront Parkway — Creating a small-town feel with mixed-use buildings to offer more affordable housing

These plans are outlined in the CRA’s economic development strategy, which also includes the project’s core principles (such as promoting infill development, livability, and connectivity) along with suggested time frames + funding sources for action items.

Site plan of a Lakeland townhouse development showing units, parking, sport court, playground, dog park, and landscaped areas.

The development will include interior parking spots, parks, and a sports court between townhouse buildings.

Affordable housing

City commissioners also approved three ordinances that allow for a 30-townhome development in Midtown. Orlando-based Neiel Group will buy CRA-owned land for the neighborhood, which will be sold as affordable workforce housing.

The lot is located one street north of Memorial Boulevard + just east of Lakeland Hills Boulevard. In the commission meeting, some city officials expressed hopes that residents may be able to walk to nearby jobs in Lakeland’s medical district or use public transportation close to home.

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