LAKE WALES, Fla. — Changes are on the way to the streets of Lake Wales thanks in part to a new federal grant.

What You Need To Know

  • Lake Wales is getting $22.9 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation to fund its Complete Streets project

  • The project will redevelop First Street, Central Avenue, A Street and Lincoln Avenue

  • Changes include separated cycle tracks, expanded sidewalks, crosswalk improvements, upgraded lighting and shade for pedestrians in downtown

Lake Wales is getting $22.9 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation to fund its Complete Streets project.

The money is part of the RAISE grants from the Biden-Harris Administration to improve infrastructure across the country. 

The project will redevelop First Street, Central Avenue, A Street and Lincoln Avenue.

Changes include separated cycle tracks, expanded sidewalks, crosswalk improvements, upgraded lighting and shade for pedestrians in downtown.

The city has already started improvements through its Lake Wales Connected plan.

Some of that roadwork is happening right outside Mayer Jewelers, a family business that has been in downtown Lakes Wales for more than 50 years. The owners say they are hopeful the changes will help the area.

“As far as pedestrians getting from business to business, it would be nice. Open sidewalks, bigger spaces,” said Briana Mayer. “It is definitely growing here. Keeping us on our toes. But we love it.”

The changes should make it easier and safer for pedestrians who sometimes have long walks between downtown and the nearby neighborhoods.

According to USDOT, the portion of the construction project using the federal money will begin in November.