County Board Approves Controversial Road Vacations and Traffic Calming Measures

In a recent government meeting, Polk County officials took significant steps towards enhancing local infrastructure and community safety. The board approved a resolution to designate the proposed Polk County Ag Center as serving a public purpose, a necessary move to secure state funding and file a grant application for the project.

During the meeting, discussions also revolved around the vacation of several platted rights of way to facilitate property development. A petition from James Emery Jackson to vacate a portion of an unopened right of way in Crosby's addition was approved, with no objections from utility providers or adjacent property owners. Similarly, a petition from Hope Rise Development to vacate rights of way in the Holly Hill addition and Roy Miller subdivision was also approved, allowing for continued development in the area.

Additionally, the board addressed a petition from the Ridge Youth Agricultural Foundation to vacate rights of way in Waverly Manor and Washington Park. This move aims to enhance property maintenance and security, with compliance from utility providers regarding easements.

Traffic safety was another focal point, with the board considering the installation of traffic calming devices. A resolution was passed to install five speed humps on Lake Thomas Drive in Winter Haven, following a favorable response from local residents. Similarly, five speed humps will be placed on Lewis Road in Lakeland, where traffic data indicated a need for intervention due to excessive speeding.

The meeting highlighted the county's commitment to improving public infrastructure and safety, with various projects moving forward to address community needs.