Try out the new lanes on I-4 east of US 27 before this project begins in 2028. | Photo by LALtoday
Earlier this year, additional lanes opened on I-4, stretching east from US 27 in Polk County toward Orlando. Now, it’s the west side’s turn: Congestion relief lanes are coming between Lakeland and Tampa.
The project will add an express lane from County Line Road at the Polk/Hillsborough border to the I-75 interchange in Tampa. That means 17 miles of additional lanes for drivers in both directions (and hopefully less time in traffic).
When the east Polk County congestion relief plans were announced, several readers told us they hoped for more lanes in the other direction:
“I wish there was something going towards Tampa.” — Ted R.
“Lakeland to Tampa needs another lane too.” — Margo J.
“We need this on the west side of Polk too.” — Tim
Those requests are being answered nine years faster than planned; the Florida Department of Transportation had originally slated the project for 2037, but construction is now scheduled to begin in 2028.
Publix will buy the former JCPenney building + Orange Street Garage from the City of Lakeland for $10 each for its downtown IT campus. The prices were part of the deal when Publix first leased the building in 1995. Selling the garage will save the city $59,000 per year. (LkldNow)
Real Estate
Summer real estate data has been released, and it shows that the median July home price in Polk County was $305,000. That’s below last July’s median of $320,000. If you’re bargain hunting, this east Lakeland ranch-style home is less than the median price (but sadly, more than $10). (The Ledger)
Ranked
No. 33. That’s where Bright Ice ranked on Yelp’s list of the top 100 ice cream shops in the US. Celebrate the achievement at its Lakeland shop with a scoop of the newest fall flavor, pumpkin toffee.
Tech
Florida Poly students are teaming up with local cybersecurity company Sittadel to develop a Security Operations Center. Sittadel will operate the center on campus, while students will get firsthand experience responding to real cybersecurity threats.
Feel Good
Lakelander Nantita Seoane has a new set of wheels thanks to the National Auto Body Council, which donates refurbished cars to drivers in need. The single mother was nominated for the council’s Recycled Rides program by One More Child, where she works with the Anti-Trafficking Mobile Team. (Fox 13 News)
Seasonal
Descend into madness at Ominous Descent, a hair-raising haunted trail in Winter Haven. There are only two weekends left to experience this season’s theme, “Resident Misery.” New this year: Pick an arrival time when you buy tickets.
Join Stride for Life on Wednesday, Oct. 29, 5-7 p.m. at Lakeside Village for a fun community walk raising awareness about stroke prevention, recovery, and support. Enjoy health screenings, info tables, and interactive activities for all ages. Learn more.*
Number
217,734. That’s how many people have switched to Oricle hearing aids — enjoying conversations, TV, and the sounds of life for under $100. Learn more.*
Home is where the history is — dive into yours at the City of Lakeland’s Historic Home Workshop this Saturday, Oct. 25, 8 a.m.-1 p.m.
Head to the Ordway Building at Florida Southern College for free workshops on everything from discovering your property’s past to properly repairing historic windows. You can also meet with preservation experts + home improvement pros in the Exhibit Area.
Pro tip: Be one of the first 20 guests to sign up for a free tour of Frank Lloyd Wright’s architecture around FSC at the conclusion of the workshop. These will usually run you $35+.
The Buy
Looking for a little early holiday gift inspiration? While our official gift guide is on the way, here’s a sneak peek at what we’re loving right now.
The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
A roll by any other name... Did you catch that Tsunami Sushi is now under new ownership? It’s now known as Daisy Garden Restaurant & Lounge, complete with a new look and more Vietnamese cuisine on the menu, in addition to your favorite sushi + hibachi dishes.
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