The Lakeland Board of Commissioners approved an agreement with the Tennessee Department of Human Services on Thursday, Dec. 5, paving the way for the construction of an early-learning childcare center as part of the planned Lakeland YMCA Community Center. The facility will be located north of the Interstate 40-Canada Road interchange, on the former site of the Econo Lodge, which was demolished in 2023.
The board’s resolution authorizes a $6.3 million grant contract, funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), to cover the early-learning center component of the project. “Essentially, it’s $6.3 million of free money, but it has to be spent specifically on that early learning use,” said City Attorney Will Patterson. The ARPA funds must be allocated by Dec. 31, 2024, and fully spent by the end of 2026.
The Lakeland Community Center, which is projected to cost $27 million overall, will feature a 38,820-square-foot multiuse building. In addition to the early-learning childcare center, the facility will include a multipurpose gymnasium, workout studios, fitness spaces, and locker rooms. Plans also include an outdoor aquatic training center with seating for spectators.
The resolution passed with a 4-1 vote, with Commissioner Connie McCarter casting the lone dissenting vote. McCarter has opposed the construction of the community center since its inception.
