Lakeland, October 9, 2025

News Summary

The Lakeland Community Center project is set to advance with bids scheduled for October 31. Groundbreaking is anticipated in spring, bringing a much-needed recreational facility to the community. The project features a full gym, fitness areas, and a pool, with funding support from various sources, including contributions from the YMCA.

Lakeland Community Center Project Moves Forward with Official Bids and Groundbreaking Timeline

The Lakeland Community Center project is making significant progress, with a bid scheduled for October 31, 2025. Groundbreaking for the center is anticipated to take place in spring 2026, with construction expected to last between 12 to 18 months.

This ambitious project is a collaboration between the city of Lakeland and the YMCA of Memphis and the Mid-South. The total estimated cost for the community center is $21.3 million, with the YMCA contributing $4.8 million. Additional funding is being pursued through an anticipated Department of Human Services (DHS) grant aimed specifically at the early learning center component of the project. Moreover, an $11 million USDA loan will be utilized; this financing model is similar to what was used for Lakeland Prep.

Community Center Features

The new community center will encompass an area of 45,000 square feet and is designed to feature:

• A full basketball gymnasium
• Modern indoor and outdoor fitness areas
• An early learning childcare center with a dedicated drop-off lane
• An eight-lane outdoor swimming pool
• A large greenspace on the east side of the property for potential future aquatic facility expansion

The site for the center is strategically located on the former Econo Lodge Hotel property off Beverly Riviera Road and Huff N Puff Road, in close proximity to I-40. Funding for the community center will also be assisted through the Gateway Tax Increment Financing (TIF) plan, which utilizes funds from surrounding developments, including Ashmont.

Design and Management

The design of the facility has already received approval from the Lakeland Municipal Planning and Design Review Commission. The management and maintenance of the community center will be the responsibility of the YMCA, ensuring ongoing upkeep and operational efficiency.

Community involvement was actively encouraged throughout the project development, with feedback gathered from the Parks Board, city staff, and Lakeland residents during the design process. The community center’s design will also feature enhanced landscaping for improved aesthetics and privacy, reflecting the input received from the community.

Objective of the Community Center

The primary aim of the community center is to serve as a hub for recreation, wellness, and family programming for local residents. With its robust array of features, the center is expected to cater to the diverse needs of the Lakeland community and create a space conducive to health, fitness, and family activities.

Key Project Timelines

Here are important upcoming dates related to the Lakeland Community Center project:

• Bid date: October 31, 2025
• Groundbreaking: Spring 2026
• Construction duration: 12 to 18 months

Funding and Financial Structure

The financial structure includes contributions from the YMCA, potential DHS grants, and an USDA loan. The TIF plan will support the project through funding from nearby developments. The combination of these funding sources aims to provide a solid foundation for both construction and operational costs.

Conclusion

The Lakeland Community Center represents a significant investment in the community’s future, promising a much-needed venue for recreational and educational advancement. As the project progresses, it is expected to enhance the quality of life for residents and transform the area into a vibrant community hub.

FAQs

Chart: Key Features of the Lakeland Community Center

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Additional Resources

• FOX 13 Memphis
• Wikipedia: Lakeland, Tennessee
• Lakeland Currents
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Tennessee
• Action News 5

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