The City of Lakeland has officially released bids for the construction of the long-anticipated Lakeland YMCA Community Center, Mayor Josh Roman announced in a recent city video. The 45,000-square-foot facility will be built on the former Econo Lodge Hotel site off Beverly Riviera Road and Huff N Puff Road, near I-40.
The total project cost is estimated at $21.3 million, with $4.8 million contributed by the YMCA. Additional funding will come from an anticipated Department of Human Services (DHS) grant for the early learning center and an $11 million USDA loan, similar to the one used for Lakeland Prep. The project will also benefit from the Gateway Tax Increment Financing (TIF) plan, which allows the city to use funds from nearby developments like Ashmont to support construction.
Plans for the new community center include a full basketball gymnasium, modern indoor and outdoor fitness areas, an early learning childcare center with a dedicated drop-off lane, and an eight-lane outdoor swimming pool. The property will also feature a large greenspace on the east side that could accommodate a future aquatic expansion.
City Manager Michael Walker stated that the winning bid will be selected October 31, with construction expected to begin in spring 2026 and last 12 to 18 months, setting an anticipated opening in early 2027.
Mayor Roman expressed his enthusiasm in the video, saying, “I cannot be more excited.”
