July 2025

 

Dear Lakeland Residents,​


Welcome to today's mid‑July edition of Access Lakeland! Summer is in full swing, and we’re excited to share timely updates, upcoming events, and important reminders to keep you connected and enjoying our city.



Warm regards,​



Shawn Sherrouse

City Manager​

Online Access for All Starts Here


Staying connected is more than a luxury, it’s a necessity. That’s why the City of Lakeland is encouraging residents to take advantage of the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), a federal initiative that helps households afford internet service and devices.


Through the ACP, eligible residents can receive up to $30 per month toward internet bills and a one-time discount of up to $100 on a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet.


Whether you're job hunting, learning online, attending a virtual doctor visit, or just catching up with loved ones, reliable internet access helps make it possible. Lakeland Public Libraries are ready to assist anyone who needs help applying.


Who qualifies?

Households with a member who participates in SNAP, Medicaid, WIC, or receives free or reduced-price school meals may be eligible. The application is straightforward and support is available locally.

Take the first step toward better access and digital inclusion.

Featured Stories

Western Trunk Gravity Sewer Line: Phase One Update


Work is ongoing north along Lotus Avenue, including a closure at Ariana Street for about three weeks. This upgrade replaces the aging 36‑inch line with a new 42‑inch pipeline, new pump station, and collector lines; supporting growth and improving service.

Avelo Extends Flights Through February


Avelo Airlines will continue its service from Lakeland Linder International Airport through mid-February 2026, with one-way fares starting at just $39*. This extension offers more affordable travel options through the holiday and winter seasons.

Help Shape Downtown’s Future: LDDA Election Open



The Lakeland Downtown Development Authority (LDDA) is accepting qualifying packets from Monday, July 28 through Friday, August 1. Two seats (terms January 1, 2026–December 31, 2028) are open. Property owners and registered voters in the LDDA area are encouraged to apply 

A graphic banner showing a 747 airplane with the Avelo Airlines logo flying through a clear blue sky. Bold text reads, 'Where will you fly next?' The banner invites viewers to check out flights from Lakeland International Airport with Avelo Airlines.

Solid Waste Collection Schedule

Regular trash and recycling services continue without interruption throughout July.


As hurricane season continues, please do not place storm debris at the curb until after a storm has passed and official guidance is issued. For routine yard waste and bulk pickups, follow your normal schedule and separate materials properly to help keep streets clear and safe.

Project Updates

Events

🎭 Lakeland Community Theatre: Catch Me If You Can

  • Type: Musical
  • Dates: July 11–27, 2025
  • Location: Lakeland Community Theatre

Details: This high-flying musical based on the hit film tells the story of Frank Abagnale Jr., a young con artist who successfully posed as a pilot, doctor, and lawyer. All before his 21st birthday.


🎶 Polk Museum of Art: AGB Thursdays – Julián Pernett Castilla and Friends

  • Type: Live Music
  • Dates: July 17 & 24, 2025 | Time: 5:00 p.m.
  • Location: Polk Museum of Art Atrium

Details: Enjoy live jazz and Latin-inspired music in a relaxing gallery setting. Admission is free.


🛍️ RP Funding Center: The Fancy Flea Vintage Marketplace

  • Type: Market Event
  • Dates: July 18–19, 2025 | Time: 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
  • Location: RP Funding Center
  • Details: Shop from over 100 vendors offering vintage goods, handmade crafts, and home décor. Admission is $7–$8 and includes free parking.

The Marshall Tucker Band Live at RP Funding Center


Date: September 13, 2025

Location: RP Funding Center, Lakeland, FL

Southern rock legends The Marshall Tucker Band will perform in Lakeland to celebrate 50 years since their 1974 show at the former Lakeland Civic Center. Fans can expect classic hits like “Can’t You See” and “Heard It in a Love Song,” plus special 1974-inspired ticket pricing. Tickets on sale now. This milestone concert promises a night of soulful storytelling and timeless rock and roll.

Illustrated graphic promoting City of Lakeland Swim Lessons. The design features a child swimming at the top surrounded by playful aquatic characters, including a dolphin, rubber duck, seahorse, shark, stingray, and bubbles. Bold text in the center reads 'City of Lakeland Swim Lessons' on a blue, water-textured background.
Logo for the History and Culture Center featuring an elegant swan with a graceful, curved neck.
A bright, playful green graphic with bold, cheerful text that reads, 'PR&CA Programs and classes."
Graphic promoting Summer 2025 Adult Athletics. Bold yellow text on a brown background reads “Summer Adult Athletics 2025,” with the year “2025” repeated in a fading gradient. Four yellow icons at the bottom depict stylized figures playing soccer, baseball, volleyball, and walking or running.
A bright, playful green graphic with bold, cheerful text that reads, 'PR&CA Parks Finder."
Promotional graphic from the City of Lakeland’s Business Resource Office. The text reads: 'Starting a new business? We can help.' Below, it lists: 'City of Lakeland, Community & Economic Development, Business Resource Office.' The right side features a photo tinted in blue of a person working at a desk with business charts and papers. The City of Lakeland logo, featuring a stylized swan, appears at the bottom.

Meeting Minutes Andrew Gash, with the Communications Department, breaks down the City Commission Meeting in our video series "Meeting Minutes."

Listen Lakeland The LakelandGov Podcast aims to produce quality audio content with the goal of having an informed and engaged citizenry.

 
STAY CONNECTED
ONLINE | LakelandGov.net
IN-PERSON | City Hall • 8A.M.-5P.M. • Monday-Friday (Holiday Schedule)
SOCIAL MEDIA | Facebook • Twitter • Snapchat • Instagram • Vimeo • Youtube | @LakelandGov
LISTEN LAKELAND • First Sunday | FM97.5 WPCV @ 8:30A.M. | FM 98.3 WWRZ @ 8A.M. | AM 1430 WLKF @ 8A.M. | AM 1230 WONN @ 9A.M.
LAKELANDGOV APP • Google Play | The App Store

PUBLIC MEETINGS
Commission Meetings • First & Third Monday • 9A.M.
Utility Committee Meeting • Friday Preceding First Monday • 11A.M.
LIVE BROADCAST | Spectrum 643 • Frontier FiOS 43 | LakelandGov.net/tv
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