Lakeland commissioners voted unanimously to approve major modifications to Lakeland Family YMCA and the nearly 41,000-square-foot fieldhouse expansion.
The estimated $21 million project will improve overall safety and increase the capacity of the YMCA’s programs.
“Our child care building in the back is not safe,” said Elaine Thompson, CEO of YMCA West Central Florida. “As in elementary schools right now, we are not safe for active shooters.”
Thompson said the expansion will eliminate the YMCA’s entrance directly onto Cleveland Heights Boulevard and move the Westover Street entrance about 75 feet east, away from Cleveland Heights. The city staff has agreed to provide funds to extend the southbound left turn lane at Cleveland Heights Boulevard and Westover Street by approximately 40 feet.