Support Us Button Widget

“Parklets” coming to Lakeland, FL

Add a heading (42)

Parklets will attach to existing sidewalks to provide additional seating | Rendering via Julie Townsend

The completion of the streetscape expansion project of 2021 gave Lakelanders a taste of sidewalk dining, and now they’re ordering seconds.

Unlike the original expansion, a new venture featuring prefabricated metal sidewalk extensions called “parklets” will allow businesses to expand outdoor seating without having to undergo road-altering construction. Two downtown restaurants are already expecting their parklets to be fully installed in the coming weeks.

Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille and Frescos Southern Kitchen & Bar have already received a majority of the required materials for their parklets. Now, the businesses are waiting on the availability of an installer to complete the transformation. Once the process is underway, construction of the parklets will take roughly one hour.

While exact numbers have not yet been determined, an estimated 20-30 seats will be added to the parklets at Harry’s. Frescos plans to move their existing picnic tables to the new parklets and create 24 new seats where the picnic tables currently sit.

Originally, the Lakeland Downtown Development Authority (LDDA) was going to pitch in $10,000 per parklet, with the expectation that participating restaurants would cover the remaining cost. However, in 2022 the LDDA instead decided to fully fund each parklet and then lease it for an “inconsequential amount of money” to Frescos and Harry’s, who will be responsible for cleaning and maintenance.

More from LALtoday
This city boasts top-ranked medical providers and specialty services. Our comprehensive guide will help you find the care you need — whether you’re new to town or just looking around.
We’re here to make your flying process plane and simple.
The store finds vacant retail spaces and signs temporary leases to set up shop leading up to Halloween — but locations can change each year.
Check out a book, then check out these unique library features that cardholders can enjoy.
These events bring together your favorite vendors on the same day each month in nearby downtown areas and historic districts.
We keep an eye on your clicks to make sure LALtoday is always filled with content you love.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
Just like each dog breed has its own personality, each community in Lakeland shines with unique characteristics. Which breed sounds most like you?
If you don’t have coffee already in hand, consider this your sign to grab some.
Ready for your lunch break? Check out these 30+ lunches from hearty salads to diner-style bites.