Lakeland commissioners have cleared the way for a community of 30 two-story townhomes north of Memorial Boulevard and east of the city’s medical corridor.
The decision at Monday’s City Commission meeting passed 5-2 after a contentious debate over traffic and parking.
Planning logic: The proposal for “affordable workforce housing” by Orlando-based Neiel Group LLC ticks many boxes in the city’s long-term land use and economic development plans.
- Density: It’s infill development in an urban area with existing infrastructure.
- Affordability: The two- and three-bedroom homes would be sold, not rented, and priced within reach of nurses, teachers and police officers.
- Walkability: Couples might only need one car because several major employers are nearby, including Academy Prep middle school 0.1 miles away and Lakeland Regional Health 0.7 miles away.
- Well-served by transit: Citrus Connection’s pink, orange and purple lines all pass within a quarter mile.
- Neighborhood revitalization: The site — north of a pawn shop, check-cashing store and low-budget motel — has many transient residents. The townhome community would bring investment to the area, including new sidewalks along Bon Air Street, Gilmore Avenue, 1st Street and North Vermont Avenue.
There is “planning logic behind this proposal,” Lakeland Planning & Transportation Manager Chuck Barmby said…