On a momentous evening at City Hall on July 17, 2023, the Lakeland Board of Commissioners (BOC) made a decision that would pave the way for a transformative project in the community. With great enthusiasm and optimism, the BOC officially authorized the acquisition of the Econo Lodge Motel, owned by Quantum Hotels, L.L.C., through Resolution R-60-2023. Additionally, they secured the property across from the Econo Lodge, a gravel parking lot, to complement the upcoming development.
Come September 1st, 2023, the ownership of the property will officially transfer to the City of Lakeland, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter in the city’s progress. The overwhelming majority of the BOC members, including Mayor Josh Roman, Vice Mayor Wesley Wright, and Commissioner Michelle Dial, voted in favor of moving forward with the purchase, supported by Commissioner Jim Atkinson, who has been a consistent advocate for this initiative in previous votes. While Commissioner Connie McCarter dissented, the community’s collective vision prevailed, and the project received the green light.
What makes this acquisition truly special is its purpose. The City of Lakeland plans to develop a state-of-the-art YMCA community center on the site, adding an invaluable asset to the neighborhood. The transformation of the Econo Lodge Motel into a vibrant hub for health, wellness, and community engagement is central to the Gateway TIF redevelopment initiative for the Canada Road exit. This project reflects the city’s commitment to enhancing the lives of its residents and fostering a strong sense of community.
Funding for this remarkable project will come from a property tax increase, ensuring that the community plays an active role in shaping its future. With the removal of the motel, the city will create space for the development of the new YMCA center, a place where people of all ages can come together, stay active, and form lasting connections. This marks a significant step forward in enriching the quality of life for Lakeland’s residents.
The legal process of acquiring the property has been ongoing, and a tentative resolution was reached on June 28, setting the stage for the exciting vote that took place on July 17. With confirmation of possession set for September 1st, the city is eagerly looking forward to commencing the next phases of the project.
The acquisition cost for the approximately five-acre property, including the motel, is $2.625 million—a worthwhile investment in the community’s future well-being. Furthermore, the BOC voted 3-1 to acquire an additional 1-acre parcel situated between the Refuge Church and the Super 8 motel on Huff N Puff Road. This acquisition adds more opportunities for community development, showcasing the city’s dedication to creating a thriving and cohesive environment.
City attorney Will Patterson assured that the possession of the property is confirmed and the gears are in motion for the exciting changes ahead. Lakeland City Manager, Michael Walker, expressed enthusiasm for the future, sharing that the demolition of the motel can happen quickly if desired. “If we take possession on September 1, we would work with our demolition vendor to schedule and plan the site’s transformation immediately, or as soon as we’d like after that September 1 date.”
As the calendar inches closer to September 1st, the residents of Lakeland eagerly await the beginning of this incredible transformation. The YMCA community center will become a beacon of health, happiness, and unity—a place where the community can come together, grow together, and thrive together for generations to come. The future is bright for Lakeland, and the positive impact of this development will resonate for years to come.