Lakeland Downtown Development Authority supports rec room expansion after unanimous vote

The Lakeland Planning and Zoning Board meeting on January 22, 2025, spotlighted a significant proposal for the expansion of a downtown recreational facility, known as the rec room. The discussion centered around a request for a two-year review of service calls from the Lakeland Police Department, covering incidents from December 2022 to December 2024. This data aims to assess the impact of the rec room and other nearby bars on community safety.

A key highlight of the meeting was the unanimous support from the Lakeland Downtown Development Authority (LDDA) for the proposed expansion. At their meeting on August 15, 2024, the LDDA Board of Directors endorsed the staff recommendation, indicating strong backing for the project.

However, the proposal faced some community concerns. Two residents from the Lakeland Lofts, located above a nearby Jimmy John's, expressed objections regarding the expansion. Their feedback will be considered as part of the decision-making process.

The outcome of this meeting could significantly influence the future of downtown Lakeland, balancing community safety with the desire for recreational growth. The board will continue to evaluate the proposal, taking into account both the support from the LDDA and the concerns raised by local residents.