What's Happening in Lakeland, FL…

Lakeland's transportation may get an upgrade soon, with a meeting being hosted tomorrow to discuss it.

The Department of Transportation for Florida is looking into the public's concerns about northwest Lakeland's needs for transportation. The department targeted the location east of Kathleen Road, south of Interstate 4, west of Lakeland Hills Boulevard, and north of Memorial Boulevard.

Phillip Walker, the city commissioner, expressed the needs of his district. He elaborated that buses, sidewalks, and bike lanes would be beneficial, that residents need better options in traveling, and that places need to be better connected with travel methods such as bikes, buses, and walking.

Residents who rely on buses have expressed their frustration over wait times. Buses come every 30 minutes in the medical area of the city, but many places have to wait an hour or more. Recently, officials cut transportation funds for the northwest quadrant of Lakeland.

Citrus Connection provides public transportation for Polk County, including Lakeland. The executive director, Tom Phillips, expressed his hope for updated services but admits it might not happen.

A poster printing company can help cities update transportation by creating colorful yet clear visuals to show new schedules. There will be a meeting tomorrow, August 2, at 1104 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue, the Coleman Bush Building, to discuss potential upgrades. It will run from 5:00 to 7:00 pm.