Ch-ch-changes. City officials are planning several updates and additions for Lakeland in 2023, from infrastructure to recreation.

What's changing?

One of the top priorities for the city is improving infrastructure to support our booming population. With nearly $18 million in American Rescue Plan Act funding, the city plans on replacing 2.7 miles of sewer lines to handle wastewater from new developments. Another $42.9 million in grant funding will be used to restore Lake Bonnet and prevent flooding.

Along with infrastructure upgrades, population growth also calls for more emergency services. The city's 2023 budget includes funding for an eighth fire station in north Lakeland, although construction may not begin this year.

Officials have also planned to revitalize the downtown area, offering more for residents to enjoy in Munn Park and increase available parking. The City Commission has discussed adding a parking app and changing select traffic intersections with stoplights into four-way stops instead.

Inside City Hall | Photo by @lakelandgov

How can I get involved?

If you want to make your voice heard on local changes like these, there are several ways to join the conversation:

Lakeland City Commission meetings occur every other Monday at 9 a.m. at City Hall (228 S. Massachusetts Ave.) and are open to the public. Pro tip: View the agendas online.
The Lakeland Downtown Development Authority's public meetings happen on the third Thursday of the month at 8 a.m. at City Hall.

Want to share your thoughts another way? You can email the City Commission to give feedback or ask questions. If you have an idea to improve city services, submit it online.

For more information on the developments mentioned above and more coming to Swan City, check out The Ledger’s breakdown here.