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Lake Technical College outlines "Lake Tech South" campus plan at Lincoln Park Education Center
Summary
Lake Technical College told the school board that it plans a phased, workforce-focused presence at the Lincoln Park Education Center campus, branded "Lake Tech South," beginning with a gym renovation to house HVAC and electrician training and a shared classroom for Lake Sumter State College.
Lake Technical College told the school board at its workshop that it plans a phased, workforce-focused presence at the Lincoln Park Education Center district campus, branded "Lake Tech South," to provide short-term, high-skill training in the county's south end.
"So that's what I intend to do is share just a little bit, with you about what we're referring to as, Lake Tech South to make it quick and easy," presenter Deanna Thomas said, describing phase 1 as the renovation of the former gym into four classrooms (three with adjoined labs), four teacher offices, a break room and restrooms.
The college said it expects to launch HVAC training during daytime hours and apprenticeship or evening programs for working students; an electrician training program and at least one classroom and lab dedicated for Lake Sumter State College were also proposed. "This was funded, solely on a workforce capitalization grant given from the state of Florida," Thomas said, adding that Lake County has set aside $800,000 in ARPA funds to supplement site work, producing roughly $5,800,000 available for initial work.
Architectural renderings shown to the board retain the historic Lincoln Park design cues but apply Lake Tech branding. Thomas said mitigation and demolition work on the former gym and locker rooms is complete and that the team anticipates construction completion in March 2026, though programming might not begin until August depending on schedule.
Board members raised parking and stormwater as constraints. Thomas asked the district to consider allowing the college to use district-controlled land behind the campus "to develop that and use that as a parking space area for students to be able to go, and attend classes there." Board members and community speakers voiced support for the plan and suggested adding weekend community uses, such as recreation courts, to maximize the shared benefit.
Next steps: the presenters asked the board for direction on using adjacent district land for student parking and shared facilities; the board requested follow-up details on lease terms, stormwater and site design.
Speakers cited (first reference): Deanna Thomas, Lake Technical College representative (00:01:25). Board chair (00:00:52).
