Commissioners approve multiple infrastructure, parks and utilities contracts; contract for behavioral health services authorized

Polk County commissioners voted Jan. 21 to approve multiple contracts and infrastructure agreements covering roadwork, parks equipment, utilities and behavioral health services, and they also completed several land‑use hearings.

Key board approvals

- Thompson Nursery Road infrastructure agreement (Agenda item H‑1): The board approved an infrastructure agreement with the Peace Creek Crossing Community Development District covering Phase 2, Segment 5 roadway improvements on Thompson Nursery Road. Manager's office materials described a total capital investment of $5,916,393.91, with the community development district contributing $1,187,326.75 and Polk County's construction reimbursement not to exceed $4,729,067.16. The board approved the agreement.

- Park and playground equipment piggyback agreements (H‑2): Commissioners approved piggyback procurement agreements with Rep Services, Inc. and Bliss Products and Services, Inc. to purchase and install inclusive park and playground equipment countywide. County staff estimated annual expenditures for playground equipment and related services could range from about $3,000,000 to $4,500,000 in coming years; funding was identified within the Parks and Natural Resources Leisure Services MSTU Fund.

- US 27 at Tierra del Sol intersection contract (H‑3): The board authorized a construction contract with Ajax Paving Industries of Florida for intersection improvements at U.S. Highway 27 and Tierra del Sol Boulevard, including a…