Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Winter Haven public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
10 issues in roads
8th Street NW and Ave L NW road project
The city is surveying and gathering resident input before designing water, sewer and complete-street upgrades, with a community meeting planned for December. A $507,584 design contract and a $1.7 million FDOT construction grant are already in place.
Logistics Parkway Extension Construction Change Order
The commission reviewed a $119,827 change order for the Logistics Parkway extension project to cover unexpected drainage issues, roadway elevations, and gopher tortoise relocations.
Traffic Calming and Speed Bumps
A resident voiced strong concerns about the number of speed bumps installed across city streets, arguing they damage vehicles and unfairly penalize all drivers.
Citrus Connection Transit Funding
Transit officials requested a 4% increase in Winter Haven's municipal contribution for fiscal year 2026-27 to offset rising fuel, maintenance, and operating costs after four years without an increase.
Avenue K SW Roadway Transfer
Winter Haven officially took over the maintenance and upkeep of Boys Club Road from Polk County.
Lake Ruby Drive Infrastructure Acceptance and Pedestrian Safety
Residents from the Traditions community raised urgent safety concerns about heavy traffic, speeding, and a lack of traffic signals or safe crossing options at Thompson Nursery Road and Lake Ruby Drive as new developments add thousands of trips.
Highway 17 and Cypress Gardens Boulevard Sinkhole Repair
City crews and FDOT worked overnight to repair a significant underground void and hole that opened up at a major intersection, successfully reopening the road before morning rush hour.
3rd Street NW Complete Street Project & Infrastructure Upgrades
The city is awarding a construction contract to Tucker Paving for the 3rd Street NW Complete Street project, which will add roundabouts, traffic calming, and sidewalk improvements. Additionally, staff reviewed several major water and wastewater plant equipment replacements funded through capital reserves.
Federal Appropriations for North Lake Ship Drive and Willowbrook Road
Winter Haven is pursuing federal funding through Congressman Franklin's office to help cover multi-million dollar road and utility rehabilitations on North Lake Ship Drive and Willowbrook Road. Each project is estimated at around $12 million, with the city seeking a 50-50 federal match.
Roosevelt Drive Construction Agreement
Approval of an FDOT agreement for constructing improvements along Roosevelt Drive.