A roughly 6-mile stretch of Memorial Boulevard traveled by 20,000 to 40,000 vehicles a day is a “corridor of opportunity” to Lakeland officials.
Valerie Vaught, manager of Lakeland’s Community Redevelopment Agency, offered a first look at the city’s Memorial Boulevard Economic Development Strategy at the July 7 commission meeting. The 61-page report from consultant Ayres Associates offered a future vision and 31 specific action items to address in the coming years.
“Memorial Boulevard will be a vibrant, safe and thriving corridor that fosters and enhances community well-being and preserves its rich history,” reads the plan’s opening Vision Statement. “Through strategic revitalization, the corridor will be a dynamic mix of locally owned businesses, essential services and attractive public spaces and homes that serve residents, businesses and visitors alike.”