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CRA approves three strategic acquisitions for Dixieland and Midtown redevelopment
Summary
The Lakeland Community Redevelopment Agency agreed to buy three vacant parcels in Dixieland and Midtown to support infill commercial development, streetscape improvements, and parking; purchases were unanimously approved by the committee and commission.
The Lakeland Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) moved to acquire three parcels in separate Midtown and Dixieland corridors as part of a targeted redevelopment strategy.
At the Real Estate & Transportation Committee, CRA staff described the purchases as catalytic infill that would re‑establish alley networks, provide access for future parking, and strengthen commercial frontage at signalized intersections. The three agreements approved by the committee and later ratified by the commission were:
- Northeast corner of East Belmar Street and South Florida Avenue (three parcels) — purchase price $750,000; $679,075 to be paid from Dixieland CRA funds and $70,925 from transportation district impact fee revenue; 150‑day due‑diligence period; closing about 06/24/2025 if not terminated earlier. The CRA advisory board recommended approval and the committee cited a concept that reserves parcels for infill development while directing the public to an existing city parking lot nearby.
- Northwest corner of Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue and Memorial Boulevard (four parcels) — purchase price $250,000; 120‑day due‑diligence period; closing approximately 04/05/2025. The committee noted the CRA is seeking community input on a vision for Memorial Boulevard and several surrounding privately‑owned parcels remain to be assembled.
- 833 North Florida Avenue and 918 North Tennessee Avenue (two parcels in Midtown mass‑market area) — purchase price $355,000 total ($175,000 and $180,000 allocated to the two addresses); 120‑day due diligence and a 60‑day closing window after diligence; sellers are estate beneficiaries and probate costs will be deducted at closing.
Committee members asked about parking‑structure feasibility, environmental review (FDEP advanced tank restoration acceptance was noted for one site), and timing for entitlements and developer recruitment. CRA Manager Valerie Vaught said environmental consultants are on continuing contract lists and the CRA will pursue research and entitlement steps prior to redevelopment.
Action & votes: each purchase carried unanimous committee recommendation and subsequent commission approval by voice vote.
Ending
Staff recommended and the commission authorized CRA officials to execute documents necessary to close the transactions; one appropriation (about $70,925) will be required to cover the third parcel funding from transportation impact fees.
