See inside Valencia at the Park, Orange Street’s new apartment complex
The complex is designed according to the historic district’s guidelines. | Rendering provided by CODA Development
In case you missed it, a new apartment complex is coming to the area around Lake Mirror, blending brand new construction with the historic neighborhood’s style. We stopped by Valencia at the Park for an update on construction at the corner of East Orange Street and South Lake Avenue.
Set to open for move-ins on April 1, Valencia at the Park consists of 32 units across three buildings. On the first floor are single bedroom units. Above, the two bedroom units all include two stories of space. Similar to nearby bungalow homes, each unit will also have a patio or balcony. Even the orange-themed names of the floor plans pay tribute to Lakeland’s citrus industry history.
Because the complex sits inside the East Lake Morton historic district, it has to match surrounding structures and the neighborhood’s historic design. Developer Jason Lewis of CODA Development shared that the homes will be painted in vintage green hues, and the exterior will feature the area’s signature bungalow-style architecture.
Residents can expect amenities like reserved parking, Amazon package lockers, and electric vehicle charging. Plus, downtown will be a short walk away. Here’s how long it will take to walk to nearby points of interest:
Barnett Family Park — 1 minute
Hollis Garden — 2 minutes
Lakeland Community Theatre — 3 minutes
Lake Morton — 6 minutes
The upcoming On Dog Time dog park — 6 minutes
The Joinery — 7 minutes
Munn Park — 13 minutes
Construction is wrapping up soon on Valencia at the Park. Pre-leasing is now open and pricing ranges from $1,596 to $2,395 per month.
Collectorama | Thursday, Feb. 8-Saturday, Feb. 10 | Times vary | RP Funding Center, 701 W. Lime St., Lakeland | $0-$3 | Browse collectible coins, jewelry, and more (pro tip: use the online flyer for free admission).
Trivia at Crave | Thursday, Feb. 8 | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | Crave Hot Dogs & BBQ, 2250 Griffin Rd., Lakeland | Free entry | Don’t miss this event hosted by Dang Yo Trivia — prizes are on the line.
Friday, Feb. 9
Lakeland Cruisers Cruise Night | Friday, Feb. 9 | 5-8:30 p.m. | Lakeside Village, 1479 Town Center Dr., Lakeland | Free | View modern and classic cars at this family-friendly car show that takes place every Friday, weather permitting.
Roll Out the Red Carpet for Harrison | Friday, Feb. 9 | 6-10 p.m. | Harrison School For the Arts, 750 Hollingsworth Rd., Lakeland | $65 | Enjoy food, entertainment, and a silent auction as you raise money for Harrison School for the Arts.
Saturday, Feb. 10
EmpowerHer Heart: A Women’s Wellness Affair with LRH | Saturday, Feb. 10 | 9-11 a.m. | Bonnet Springs Park, 400 Bonnet Springs Blvd., Lakeland | Free | Get a free health screening and enjoy fitness classes to celebrate women’s heart health.
PlatformKIDS Art Festival | Saturday, Feb. 10 | 1:30-3 p.m. | Florida Childrens Museum, 600 Bonnet Springs Blvd., Lakeland | Free | Browse art by local students at the opening event — the exhibit is open through Thursday, Feb. 15.
Valentine Night Market | Saturday, Feb. 10 | 5-9 p.m. | Downtown Lakeland | Free entry | Go shopping with your sweetie when 100+ vendors fill the downtown streets.
Sunday, Feb. 11
Lakeside Second Sunday Market | Sunday, Feb. 11 | 12-5 p.m. | Lakeside Village, 1479 Town Center Dr., Lakeland | Free entry | Shop 80+ vendors and enjoy live music by Peter Kolter at this outdoor market.*
$455,000+. That’s how much it will cost to add more walking trails to Se7en Wetlands. The construction contract, approved by city commissioners on Monday, also includes bridges to connect existing trails, signage, shaded pavilions, and extra park entry points. (The Ledger)
Development
Parker Pointe, a new affordable housing community, is set to open on Friday, March 1 at 900 E. Bella Vista St. The $20 million complex will offer 88 units, plus amenities like a clubroom and fitness center. Leasing is now open.
Traffic
Crews will begin milling South Boulevard, Success Avenue, East Park Street, and Carolina Avenue on Monday, March 11. Repaving will begin the following Monday, March 18, so expect detours.
Stat
100%. That’s the cumulative pass rate of Polk State College’s Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and Paramedic licensure exams — the highest in the state. Students credit the program’s rigorous standards and use of simulators for their success. Applications for the May cohort open on Friday, March 15.
Cause
Polk County’s first all-female team to compete in the Race Across America will represent Top Buttons. The Gears for Good team will bicycle over 3,000 miles, raising money for Top Buttons’ local initiatives to empower young women.
History
The Miss Florida Citrus program is celebrating 100 years since crowning its first queen in 1924. The next pageant competition will take place on Friday, March 1 at Nora Mayo Hall in Winter Haven. This year’s winner will advance to Miss Florida and win $2,000 in scholarships. (Growing Produce)
Outdoors
Meet Fabio, one of Circle B Bar Reserve’s largest reptile residents. The 12-ft alligator was recently caught on camera crossing a path in front of visitors. Thankfully, we can keep a safe distance and just watch the video online. (Miami Herald)
Shop
We’re excited to introduce you to Barkle, the newest business featured in our online store (Six & Main). Inspired by their beloved Goldendoodle, Finley, this Lakeland-based, family-owned + operated business provides meticulously crafted dog collars and leashes. This is something to bark about. Shop now.
Travel
Need some travel inspo? Scroll through Orlando International Airport’s new or resuming flights to start planning where to go next. (Hint: It includes Bermuda, Nova Scotia, Scotland, San Antonio, and more.)*
Fun Fact
John Cena is a new honorary Lakelander
John Cena visits Lakeland for a commercial shoot
We can’t wait to see the finished commercial. | Photo provided by an anonymous follower
Lakeland had a surprise visit this week from actor and wrestling star John Cena, who was in town to shoot a commercial. The ad was filmed in a south Lakeland neighborhood and production caused quite a commotion near 540A. One of our Instagram followers sent us a behind-the-scenes video + this photo of Cena on set.
It turns out that this may not be Cena’s first visit to Swan City. Several followers mentioned that he might have family in Lakeland. We know for sure that he has a $4 million home in Land O’ Lakes, just about an hour northwest of Lakeland.
Before heading to set, Cena fueled up like a true Lakelander: at a local coffee shop. The staff at Concord Coffee said he stopped by on Tuesday morning. What’s the drink of choice for a World Wrestling Entertainment champion? A flat white with whole milk.
The Buy
The Buy 2.08.24 (Affiliate + Six & Main)
The Giving Heart pillow — a cream, knitted, heart-shaped pillow that’s weighted to replicate the feeling of a real hug. It’s the perfect Valentine’s Day gift for loved ones who deserve some extra coziness and care.
I’m wondering if we’ll see John Cena’s ad in an upcoming Super Bowl commercial break. I come for the ads but I stay for the food, and I need suggestions. Tell me where you’re getting your snacks for Sunday, including wings, burgers, and everything in between.
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