In their Monday, March 3 meeting, the Lakeland City Commission approved $1.15 million in parking improvements for Lakeland International Airport. Construction is expected to begin as soon as possible on these new additions:

Covered entry + exit kiosks at the current paved parking lot
A connector from the paved lot to the grass overflow lot
Other improvements, including lighting, paved handicap parking, and additional sidewalks + crossing signs

Why the upgrades? The airport welcomed Avelo Airlines to restart passenger travel service less than a year ago. Since then, LAL has become a base for the airline and flew 46,000+ passengers in 2024. Avelo currently offers six routes, plus a new Nashville flight beginning on Thursday, March 6 — and CEO Andrew Levy says that number could continue to grow.

Coming soon: paid parking, lot improvements, and a connector from the paved lot to the overflow grass lot at the top of this image. | Screenshot via Google Maps

All good things must come to an end, including LAL's free parking. Assistant Airport Director Adam Lunn shared that the airport is "going to keep costs extremely low," and, according to LkldNow, you can expect that cost to be up to $10 per day. Pro tip: If you're visiting Sora Eatery or staying for less than four hours, parking will remain free.

In the City Commission meeting, Airport Director Kris Hallstrand said they're expecting to wrap up the project by early summer, just in time for those vacations.