The Lakeland Life 2024

THE LAKELAND LIFE 2024

Thank you Ben Naylor for the photography in this issue.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S

Blessed

At the time of this publication, I will be starting my seventh year as director of the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce—the relationships I have made and the experiences this job has given me are immeasurable. I am grateful for the support of our board of directors, members, city leaders and community. I am also nearing 20 years as a Lakeland resident and have raised two kids in our community. Both attended Lakeland Elementary and we have nothing but amazing memories of all our years there. I have made lifetime friendships with parents, teachers and administration. My daughter didn’t have the chance to attend middle or high school in Lakeland, but I’m thankful that my son will be able to attend Lakeland Schools for his entire K-12 years. There are so many words to describe our feelings about this opportunity, but the number one word is blessed. We wish this for every family that considers Lakeland their home and it is something we do not take for granted. It takes a community to build pride in our schools. Find a way to be a part of the Lakeland Lion tradition; there are many opportunities to get involved. Lakeland has a big future ahead and I am blessed to play a small part.

Go Lions!

Back to My Roots

When I was 16, my first job was at Old Time Pottery at the Factory Outlet Mall. I would never have dreamed that nearly 25 years later I would be standing there as the last mall wall was demolished to make way for The Lake District development. I grew up in Bartlett, about 15 minutes from my current home. I graduated from the University of Memphis, married my husband, Jonathan, and we have two children, Abby and Clayton. When my kids were at Lakeland Elementary, I had the pleasure of serving on the PTA board in various roles, the last of which was president. That was where I met members of the Chamber board and ultimately decided to take on the part-time position of executive director. Most people don’t realize the Chamber is a non-profit entity whose mission is to support local businesses and the community. We are not part of the city government, however, we do have an amazing partnership with the City of Lakeland.

We do not have a physical Chamber location. I work from home and conduct meetings at various locations around the county and beyond. My goal is to one day be able to open the first Lakeland Chamber office located in the heart of Lakeland.

Diana Crenshaw is our part-time membership director. I would not be able to do this job without her. She organizes so many facets of the Chamber from board meetings to luncheons, ambassador events and much more! Diana was once on the Lakeland Elementary PTA board too, just a few short years before I was. She and her husband, Scott, also raised two kids in Lakeland who have become successful adults with families of their own. Together, Diana and I, along with our board of directors, continue to work hard to grow our Chamber and look forward to the exciting things happening in Lakeland!

- Brittney Buchanan

THE MAYOR'S

I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the progress and achievements we’ve made together as a community over the past year.

Lakeland has experienced remarkable growth over the last 20 years, basically doubling in population. With that growth came new developments offering places to live, work and play. We now have three defined commercial areas in Hwy. 64, I40/Canada Rd., and Lakeland Town Square on Hwy. 70. In these areas we welcomed new businesses and improved our infrastructure. Our Lakeland School System continues to excel academically. There is a great buzz about the House System being implemented to foster a greater sense

of student community. Additionally, our collective efforts in addressing public safety have resulted in notable reductions in crime rates, underscoring our commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of our residents.

As many of you are aware, plans for the Lakeland Recreation Center were announced recently. This facility, set to commence construction soon, will be a central hub for community engagement and recreational activities. It will feature amenities including an indoor gymnasium and pool, providing our residents, particularly our youth, with valuable resources and opportunities for leisure and fitness, and make it more convenient for our Parks and Recreation Department to provide facilities to our teams.

I want to extend my sincere gratitude to each of you for your continued support and collaboration.

It is your dedication that drives the progress and vitality of our community, making it a very attractive option for new residents looking for a place to call home.

Thank you for your unwavering commitment to our city.

- Mayor Josh Roman

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

PRESIDENT, WILL ASHWORTH STATE FARM INSURANCE

CINDY BARNEY

TIM HOGAN’S CARPET AND FLOORS

VICE PRESIDENT, CHRISTOPHER JENKINS COO, SAINT FRANCIS HOSPITAL BARTLETT

AMY HOWELL HOWELL MARKETING STRATEGIES,LLC

SECRETARY, KEVIN BAILEY FIREWORKS CITY

JIMMY MOORE HOMES BY J MOORE, LLC

BILLY RODGERS BILLY RODGERS, CRYE-LEIKE REALTOR

AT HOME IN LAKELAND with the maclins

WHAT MADE YOU CHOOSE LAKELAND?

"We chose Lakeland for one reason and that was the schools. This area is a hidden gem with the best school system." Tiffany Maclin

WHAT WERE YOU LOOKING FOR IN A HOME PURCHASE?

When we were looking for a home we knew we wanted to have lake access, which is another thing that makes Lakeland unique. We couldn’t find the perfect fit so we found one close and made the modifications needed for our family, along with some aesthetic touches to make it feel like ours. We love our neighborhood, our home, our schools, and all the friends we’ve made in our community. There is nowhere else we would rather be.

AT HOME IN LAKELAND with the greenes

THE HOME

of Kana and Eric Greene in Lakeland may look like modern construction, but its location is full of history. From 1906 until 2019 the property belonged to the family of James Edwin Griffin, who bought it as part of a 186-acre parcel in what was then known as Brunswick. Griffin built a barn and a home on the land over the next few years.

Generations of the family occupied the property through the decades, including James Edwin’s granddaughter, Frances Sue Griffin and her husband Thomas Morrison, who constructed a new home on the property in 1980.

In 2019 the Greenes became the first people outside the family to reside on the property in well over a century. They bought the 1980 house and remodeled it to give the exterior more the look of a historic home and to bring the interior up to date. In the process, though, they incorporated some elements from the property’s original structures in a nod to the homestead’s history.

“We restored the barn in 2019 right after we bought the house,” says Kana. “We salvaged the original tin roof from the old barn and used it as siding on the new barn because we wanted to keep as much history and old feel as we could. Even though the barn is new it still looks very much like it would if it had been the original barn from 1913.”

The Greenes incorporated another legacy piece from the property in their remodeled home. The living room fireplace mantle is made from a piece of wood from the original barn. “Eric was able to restore it and it’s a beautiful piece of history we get to look at every day,” Kana says.

LAKELAND DEVELOPMENT UPDATE

by Amy Howell & Wesley Wright

An afternoon drive to Lakeland, just outside of Memphis, is time well spent. In recent years the community has experienced quality growth that has been both strategic and deliberate. Longterm residents have been adamant that growth be controlled and that the city employ smart design that prevents the mass sprawl experienced in other cities. With a comprehensive master planning process in place and community input from its citizens, Lakeland seems to be making all the right moves in its quest to build a vibrant and sustainable community.

The public schools in Lakeland have achieved such a high performance ranking in the last decade that they are now ranked best in the state. Upscale housing developments have been a strong trademark for Lakeland and have attracted homebuyers who seek both quality and conservation of resources. Driving through Lakeland, visitors will recognize the city’s commitment to smart growth and attention to preservation of resources like trees, hills, lakes and other rural features. Lakeland has also invested heavily in its parks, recreational facilities and outdoor venues for sports and family entertainment.

Garner Lake, a sparkling gem in the area, is a 241-acre lake tucked into the heart of Lakeland, and home to many residents who enjoy a private community on and near the water. Often referred to as “The Lakeland Lake,” Garner is the largest lake in Shelby

County and is 1.1 miles long with eight miles of shoreline. Over 260 homes surround it. The popular residential area has been a staple of the community for decades.

Other noteworthy neighborhoods have been developed in recent years, offering modern, spacious designs for all family sizes. Many are described as upscale and private (gated). These homes’ upscale nature is reflected in their prices, which average approximately $462,000 (average price per 2022 sales YTD). Recent demand for housing has accelerated since the school system in Lakeland achieved the highest state rankings. Families have flocked to the idyllic community, where there seems to be something for everyone.

Recent retail activity at some of Lakeland’s mixed-use and multi-family projects such as The Lake District, Lakeland Town Square and soon-to-be Ashmont will increase dining and shopping options for residents. The Lake District (150 acres) at Canada Road and I-40 is now opening phase 1 of its retail.

The Lake District’s “The Willows” townhouses are now under construction and are targeted toward homeowners who want the benefits of new and modern construction with smaller footprints.

Ultimately, the Lake District has plans for larger, single-family homes in phase 2, as well as anchor tenants for the five outparcel properties along I-40.

Located on Hwy. 72 is another real estate anchor project, Lakeland Town Square, a 40-acre mixed-use development designed to look and feel like a traditional town square. Ashmont is currently on the drawing board for 90 acres of mixed- and multi-family use located on a parcel near the Cracker Barrel, at the former site of the paintball park. Plans are underway to develop the project, which was recently approved by Lakeland’s Board of Commissioners.

All these projects are an effort to provide both residents and visitors to the community with shopping, dining and other amenities. Currently, the City of Lakeland’s comprehensive plan is being updated with involvement and input from a committee of residents, architects, engineers and other citizens. The focus is on including conservation-minded attributes in the city’s new developments. Lakeland’s plan includes sustainable ways to support connectivity through trails and parks, not just roads, and encourages a walkable, bikeable community.

LAKELAND SCHOOL PROGRAMS

By Jeana Decker, Vice Principal, Lakeland Preparatory School

The momentum

continues at Lakeland Preparatory School as we prepare to head into our third year for high school students in 2024-2025. Each year has brought more opportunities for students to meet graduation requirements, explore new courses and learn about future careers. The school’s early postsecondary opportunities, also known as EPSOs, help students prepare for life after high school.

EPSOs give students the chance to earn college credit or certifications while still in high school. Students become familiar with the rigor and expectations of advanced coursework and are able to make informed career decisions. Taking college courses while in high school may also decrease the time and cost of completing a degree at a two- or four-year institution. EPSOs are embedded in the general curriculum as well as in Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs of study. Early postsecondary opportunities available at Lakeland Prep include the following:

• Advanced Placement

• Dual Enrollment

• Statewide Dual Credit

• Industry Certification

• Local Dual Credit

In the last two years students have had the opportunity to earn local dual credit through Southwest Tennessee Community College and Advanced Placement courses through the College Board. Additionally, students have earned the OSHA -10 industry certification in the Career and Technical fields of Health Science and STEM. Next year, statewide dual credit and dual enrollment courses will be added across several academic disciplines which will develop even more academic rigor in our advanced coursework.

Lakeland Preparatory School is home to six Career and Technical Education pathways. Programs of study include Audio/Visual Production, Entrepreneurship, Criminal Justice, Health Science, STEM and BioSTEM. These areas of study give students exposure to a multitude of careers in each area while developing workforce and college readiness. Updates include the installation of a state-of-the-art communications classroom which brought our audio/visual department to life this year. The district also received the Innovative School Model grant which provided equipment in the BioSTEM lab. The cleanroom gives students postsecondary experiences that simulate true laboratory conditions.

The Fine Arts Department continues to excel with the LPS Band ranking sixth at state after a highly competitive season. Eleven students participated in All-West in January. Two orchestra concerts, along with a variety of community performances, filled the calendar. The LPS Choir has had a record-breaking year with 23 students selected to the All-West Honor Choir, including the first three students to ever be selected to the Senior High Honor Choir. One of those students went on to become the first LPS student selected to the All-State Honor Choir. Since opening the high school, our LPS Art Department has been committed to displaying student work in the building as well as in the community, and has received over 26 awards in local, regional and national competitions. The LPS Theatre Company is in its second season, most recently producing the play Ghostlight . Rehearsals are underway currently for The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical

In addition to growing academic offerings, LPS is home to over 19 high-school sports and 17 extracurricular activities and clubs which give students the chance to learn, grow and lead outside the classroom. The success of Lakeland Prep reflects the constant support of parents, community and Lakeland leadership. Our outstanding faculty and staff are committed to providing the best possible education and early postsecondary experiences to make sure our students are prepared for the future.

CATCHING UP WITH THE CHAMBER

We are looking forward to a great lineup of speakers at this year’s luncheons. Make sure to join us on the fourth Wednesday of each month, January through October, at Lakeland Golf Club. Doors open at 11:30 with a catered lunch and a presentation that starts at noon. Last year we started a tradition of including entertainment from the LPS band and orchestra at several lunches and we are continuing that into this year.

Sponsorships are full through early 2025 but we can add to a waitlist or get you on the next available month if you are interested. We also introduced our spotlight table sponsorships this year and just a few are left for 2024. Visit our website, www.mylakelandchamber.org, to register or contact the Chamber for more information.

As always, in January we recognize outstanding members for the past year. Congratulations to this year’s winners.

Business of the Year – Villa Castrioti

Person of the Year – Michael Walker, Lakeland City Manager

Outstanding Community Partner – Mari Authement, Victory Lane BBQ

Non-profit of the Year – Lakeland Elementary PTA

Ambassador of the Year – Cindy Norman, Leaders Mortgage Services

Speaking of ambassadors, the Chamber kicked off its official ambassador program this year with an amazing group of volunteers who are willing to help grow the organization. The 2024 ambassadors are:

Mari Authement – Victory Lane BBQ & Catering

Bob Browder – Bob Browder, CPA

Amy Foster – Bryan Realty Group

Erica Holley – The Soap Factory

Cindy Norman – Leaders Mortgage Services

Dustin Smith – Smith Plumbing Services

Reach out to one of these ambassadors or the Chamber if you are interested in joining the group. We celebrated several ribbon cuttings with our members this past year. Joining our ambassadors, members and the community together in support of each other is the core foundation of the Chamber. We look forward to many more ribbon cuttings in the near future.

Our annual golf tournament was held in October 2023 and we were thrilled with the participation and support. We raised the highest amount so far to contribute to Lakeland School Booster Programs, $17,158.98. Thank you to our sponsors, volunteers and participants. We are already planning for this year’s event, set for Oct. 1. Stay tuned for more information on the many ways to participate and help support Lakeland’s Chamber and schools.

PARKS WITH A PURPOSE

by Andrew Fisher, Parks and Recreation Director

With all the momentous changes happening in the City of Lakeland, it is hard to overlook what’s happening within the Parks and Recreation Department. City leadership has shown great support for expanding facilities and programs and developing new opportunities for the citizens of Lakeland. Every plan that began as a conversation and blossomed into action has been thought through with a purpose in mind: to provide our community with a quality of life that is like no other.

In the past year, the City of Lakeland Parks and Recreation Department has seen several changes in staffing. As the new Parks and Recreation Director, I lead the department with a primary goal of continuing its recent growth. The City also added a new full-time Recreation Manager to enhance the recreation side of the department and grow it into something in which citizens would be proud to participate.

New life and new beginnings are common for our parks and facilities. The International Harvester Managerial Park (IH Park) is getting a breath of fresh air with a new permanent restroom facility set to be installed early next summer. With plans to make the lake accessible under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by paving the access road, creating ADA parking by the lake and

installing an ADA-accessible dock, IH Park will continue to be one of Lakeland’s top destinations. The Lakeland Athletic Complex, located on Memphis-Arlington Road, is an exciting new development in the Parks and Recreation Department. Phase I of the complex, which includes two full-size soccer fields and parking, is complete, and work to install state-of-the-art lighting has begun on the fields. Phase II is hot on the heels of Phase I as design is underway for facilities that are desperately needed in Lakeland—baseball fields. The complex will include three baseball fields, a concession stand and a restroom facility.

Of course, no update on Parks and Recreation would be complete without looking ahead to what is coming in the Lakeland Gateway-The Lakeland Recreation Center, which will be operated by the YMCA of the Midsouth. With leadership from the City, the area is being reimagined and rejuvenated, and we are thankful that Lakeland’s parks and recreation needs are considered among the top priorities.

Parks with a Purpose is not just a motto; it is a pledge to the citizens of Lakeland. Whether growing staff, updating current parks and facilities, or building new ones, the Parks and Recreation Department will serve and put the community first in all we do.

FUN FACTS

The Relax Inn has been located on Canada Rd for 37 years but is soon to be demolished as part of the redevelopment plan for the Gateway area near the I40 interchange.

Prep High School's first varsity football team won their first game on Sept. 15, 2023.

The Econolodge was demolished in November 2023 to make way for the new Lakeland Recreation Center.

Lakeland Elementary and Preparatory schools are both Tennessee Purple-Star Schools. This award is provided to military friendly schools that display a major commitment to serving military-connected families and students. Both schools host Veteran’s Day programs that are open to the public.

From Lakeland it is a short 25-minute drive to Ford’s Blue Oval City Mega Campus, the all-new, $5.6 billion home of the Tennessee Electric Vehicle Center which will produce all-electric trucks.

Lakeland

LAKELAND ARTS FESTIVAL

By Wesley Wright | Photos courtesy of NW Media

Sat., Oct. 28, 2023 , marked the beginning of something truly special for Lakeland, the Lakeland Arts and Crafts Festival. The Lakeland Arts Council initiated the event that was attended by more than 2,000 and boasted 30 vendors representing local and regional businesses.

Some attendees took the opportunity to do their Christmas shopping for candles, pet products, art and much more. Children sampled baked goods and enjoyed the moon bounce. Performances from Alexis Jade, the Lakeland Prep Orchestra ensembles, and The Greenes closed out the day. The city of Lakeland provided support

with parking coordination; Shelby County Sheriffs were present as well as numerous Lakeland school organizations. The Young Entrepreneurs tent was a favorite.

The event was just the beginning for the Lakeland Arts Council. The organization’s board, composed of founder Wesley Wright, Megan Dupuy, Amanda Paule, Kevin Floyd and Jim Holcomb, plans to continue the Fall Festival each year in late October, and add a spring event. The council hopes to introduce more food vendors and musical acts and grow the event without losing its home-town feel.

Stay tuned for more from the Lakeland Arts Council.

LIONS ON THE PROWL

Since our last edition of The Lakeland Life , we revealed the pride of four lion statues at locations around Lakeland. We enjoy seeing pictures of visitors with the Lions. If you would like to submit your picture to the Chamber, we will feature it on our Facebook page and possibly in the next magazine edition. Keep an eye out for the fifth Lion appearing somewhere new this year!

THANK YOU TO EVERYONE INVOLVED IN THIS PROJECT! THE OFFICIAL RIBBON CUTTING TOOK PLACE ON NOV. 10, 2022.

Artists included: Lakeland Preparatory School art teachers Jared Parham and Rachel Nanney, who worked with LPS students to design and paint the LPS and IH Clubhouse Lions. Lakeland Elementary art teacher Stephanie Robinson supervised the design and creation of the LES Lion. Lakeland resident and artist Megan Dupuy designed and created the art for the City Hall Lion. Chris Woods Construction donated the installation of the Lions, along with Wright Construction and Phillips Auto Body, which also donated materials and labor.

THE LAKELAND PREPARATORY LION FEATURES A DESIGN REPRESENTING THE MANY CLUBS AND SPORTS OFFERED AT THE SCHOOL.

Pictured are the students who helped design and create this Lion: Zoey Yale, Sophia Pater, Emily Acton, Jackson Turner, Kai Le, Arabella Parham, Isabella Noble, Evan Scott and Grace Mamikonian (not pictured).

THE LION AT LAKELAND ELEMENTARY HAS NEARLY 1,000 HANDPRINTS ON IT FROM ALL THE STUDENTS AT THE SCHOOL.

Pictured here are Principal Joretha Lockhart and Superintendent Dr. Ted Horrell.

THE CITY HALL LION WAS PAINTED BY MEGAN DUPUY. THE ARTIST SAYS, “THE LION CELEBRATES LAKELAND TODAY, AND THE COMMUNITY THAT HAS BEEN BUILT.”

THE IH CLUBHOUSE LION REPRESENTS A BEAUTIFUL SUNSET FEATURING A MEMORY OF LAKELAND’S PAST.

MEMPHIS RETAIL MARKET OVERVIEW

By Shawn Massey, CCIM, CRRP, ALC Partner, TSCG (The Shopping Center Group)

I hold an unwavering optimism about the resilience of the Memphis Retail Market, a robust force undeterred by the challenges posed by rising interest rates in capital markets and escalating construction costs. The market stands strong, boasting historically low vacancy rates at an impressive 3.5 percent overall, and even lower in the more coveted areas. Notably, our market has outshone the national retail scene for the past two and a half years, showcasing a remarkable level of vitality.

Here are some key points that underscore the vibrancy of the Memphis Retail Market:

Net Absorption Resilience: Despite a net absorption of 320,000 square feet over the past year—a figure slightly below the historical average— the lower absorption is more reflective of the fact that only 150,000 square feet of new retail space was introduced during the same period. The demand for quality inventory surpasses the current supply.

Anticipated Growth: Projections indicate the delivery of 290,000 square feet of new retail construction in the near future, with a significant portion already pre-leased. This upcoming pipeline is poised to meet demand without exerting excessive supply-side pressure, ensuring that the market remains robust.

Affordability Advantage: Memphis, in contrast to other Southeastern markets like Nashville, Charlotte and Atlanta, stands out as an affordable haven for retailers. This affordability, coupled with a steady four percent retail rental growth in line with the national average, creates an enticing environment for businesses seeking favorable deals within our community.

Strategic Location: Nestled at the core of the tri-state region known as the Mid South, Memphis assumes a pivotal role. Not only is it the secondlargest market in Tennessee, Arkansas and Mississippi, but it also holds a prime position, surpassed only by Nashville.

Job Growth Pinnacle: Memphis claims the top spot in America for percentage job growth, a testament to its economic dynamism and potential for businesses and residents alike.

In essence, the Memphis Retail Market emerges as a resilient and thriving hub, offering a unique blend of low vacancy rates, strategic positioning, affordability and promising growth prospects that set it apart on the national stage.

Lakeland Trade Area

The City of Lakeland is located in the vibrant Northeast Shelby County trade area, a dynamic region encompassing Wolfchase, Bartlett, Lakeland and Arlington. Functioning primarily as a suburban bedroom community to the bustling city of Memphis, Lakeland plays a pivotal role in the Northeast trade area, sharing its landscape with notable counterparts.

Within this trade area, the prominence of Wolfchase Mall and the vast expanse of ancillary retail properties establish it as one of only two regional trade areas in the broader Memphis and Mid South region. Recognized as a powerhouse in terms of sales per square foot (PSF), the Northeast trade area, anchored by Wolfchase, stands as one of the most robust in the Memphis Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA).

With vacancy rates comfortably below three percent, approximately half a percent lower than the macro market, this area has become a prime driver of heightened demand for retail development. The thriving residential growth, a testament to Lakeland’s allure, has created a compelling need for additional retail and restaurant amenities, consistently outpacing the overall market trends. As Lakeland and its neighboring communities experience exponential residential expansion in the coming years, the demand for retail and dining options is anticipated to maintain its impressive trajectory, further bolstering the appeal and vitality of the Northeast Shelby County trade area.

Blue Oval Effect

In the third quarter of 2021, Ford Motor Company made waves with the announcement of its groundbreaking endeavor—the creation of the largest automobile manufacturing plant in the United States, aptly named Blue Oval City. In collaboration with South Korean partner SK, this monumental project is set to redefine the landscape, situated a mere 22 miles east of The Lake District in the city of Stanton, TN, specifically at the West Tennessee Mega Site. Spanning an expansive 3,600 acres and encompassing a staggering 15 million square feet under roof, the Blue Oval City project heralds a transformative era in the region.

Projected to open in March 2025, the facility is currently under construction, promising a direct employment impact of 5,000 to 6,000 individuals and an indirect influence on 20,000 to 21,000 employees. This endeavor marks a generational shift, drawing parallels to the transformative effects seen in other regions with the establishment of automotive manufacturing giants such as Nissan/Saturn in Middle Tennessee, Volkswagen in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Mercedes in Tuscaloosa, Alabama and Mazda/Toyota in Huntsville, Alabama. Indeed, the very fabric of these towns was rewoven by the presence of these automotive powerhouses.

The Blue Oval City Effect is poised to extend its influence beyond the confines of the plant itself,

with communities in close proximity emerging as the primary beneficiaries. Among these, Lakeland stands to reap significant rewards, thanks to its strategic location at the crossroads of I-40 and Canada Road.

The Lake District

Nestled within the embrace of The Lake District lies a parcel of approximately +/- 27 retail acres, a canvas of commerce and community that unfolds across the landscape. This meticulously planned space encompasses a remarkable +/- 92,152 square feet of shopping center sprawled over 10.25 acres, complemented by out-parcels spanning 24.7 acres.

Crafted with an artist’s touch, The Lake District stands as a testament to the vision of LRK Architects of Memphis, who wove a tapestry of design brilliance into the mixed-use masterpiece. Envisioned as a comprehensive haven, this project, when fully realized, will blend retail, multi-family and singlefamily residences, hotels and a bit of office space.

The retail facet of The Lake District emerges as a jewel in the crown, strategically positioned as part of the inaugural phase of the development. The zoning regulations in place offer a nod of approval to the prospect of continued growth, envisioning forthcoming chapters in the form of retail and hotel development on the yet-undeveloped tracts.

In the realm of real estate, The Lake District is not merely a property; it is a testament to innovation and luxury. Unveiling an unparalleled opportunity for those seeking to lease or own upscale retail spaces in Northeast Shelby County, The Lake District stands as a beacon of sophistication and promise in the heart of this thriving community.

RETAIL VIBES OF LAKELAND

By Amy Howell

A lot has happened in Lakeland over the past year. The dynamic growth and investment in Northeastern Shelby County has been fueled by attractive zoning, strong city leadership, the top-ranked school system in the state, and the location adjacent to a busy I-40 and connective 385 road system.

The Ford Motor Company announced Blue Oval City and the plant construction is now underway off I-40 just east of Lakeland. This exciting news has driven interest in development along the busy I-40 corridor. As developers’ investments continue in Lakeland, the City itself has been in partnership with the private sector to acquire land for the highest and best uses. A recent example of this concept is the city’s purchase of the former Econo Lodge hotel for conversion to a future, more appropriate use.

Although plenty of land is available for sale in Lakeland, three planned developments, The Lake District, Ashmont and Lakeland Town Square, have attracted much attention, as well as new retailers, to the area. Following is a brief overview of each. For more details, visit their websites.

The Lake District

The largest of the planned developments, The Lake District has a strong and growing list of current and planned retail tenants. Known for its location and size, the development sits

at the well-traveled corner of I-40 and Canada Road, just off the newly constructed flyover.

With approximately 160 acres, The Lake District is a live-work, mixed-use, dynamic development with strict architectural standards and modern designs. The project includes single family and multi-family residential components as well as large outparcels for hotels, commercial, medical and other retail. The soon-to-open Chick-Fil-A occupies two of the outparcels off Canada Road in order to accommodate drive through and parking needs.

Retail outlets now open in The Lake District:

• Activate IV & Cryotherapy

• Boba Society Bubble Tea

• Blue Flame Cigar Lounge

• Chosen Lines Boutique

• CycleBar

• Frost Bake Shop

• Gloss Nail Bar

• Hollywood Feed Pet Store

• Lake District Wine and Liquor

• LakeFront Wellness

• Olive House Mediterranean Grocery Store

• Portales Mexican Restaurant

• Starbucks

• Stretch Lab

• The Soap Factory

• Villa Castrioti Italian Restaurant

• Wayback Burgers (coming soon)

*Above list as of this publication date

Lakeland Town Square

Lakeland Town Square, a $45 million multiuse development, sits on 42 acres on Hwy. 70 at Seed Tick Road. Currently, phase 2 is under construction. Phase 1 is completed and has attracted a variety of retail tenants.

Currently, Lakeland Town Square has 138 units completed and most are leased. As a luxury apartment community, its amenities, including swimming pools, walking trails, a spacious club room, an exercise facility and indoor secure mail boxes, offer broad appeal. Retail outlets, as of publication date at Lakeland Town Square:

• Bryan Realty

• Carrington Oaks Coffeehouse

• Fields Insurance

• The Exercise Coach

• Margaritas (coming soon)

• Shades of Nails and Spa

• Owners Box Phase 2 will have more retail when completed.

Ashmont

Ashmont is a new development on the northwest corner of Canada Road and Davies Plantation Road off I-40 at the site of the former paintball park.

Ashmont’s developer, Vince Smith, has retained Shawn Massey of The Shopping Center Group to help lease and promote the future retail, commercial, medical and hospitality parcels.

Ashmont is currently in the “dirt work” phase and sits on 102 acres with 20 acres planned for commercial use. The project plans also call for two medical parcels. According to Massey, an out-oftown developer is helping with the commercial part of Ashmont. The remaining development will be for townhomes and single-family homes.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

By Christopher Jenkins, COO Saint Francis Hospital Bartlett

Here we are, four years removed from COVID-19 and still adjusting to “normal.” What does normal really look like for anyone? For those involved in health and wellness, normal on a Monday is different on a Wednesday—flexibility is not just for the local yoga studio anymore. For healthcare organizations and hospitals like St. Francis Bartlett, focus on keeping the community healthy and supported outside of our walls has become more important than ever.

Hospitals are associated with providing care for patients inside of their walls who stay overnight or longer as well as those who come to the emergency room. However, hospitals are healthCARE organizations and focus on taking care of patients even when they away from the building. Telemedicine, dietary plans, stretching guidelines, counseling chats and remote monitoring of cardiac conditions are just a few of the ways we offer patients opportunities to receive care without having to come inside a hospital or clinic. We understand that the anxiety about contagions still exists and believe that expanding our care delivery methods is part of providing diversified care to a community.

Healthy activities play an important role in overall wellness. Gathering the family for a weekend bike ride around the lake is a great way to supplement your vitamin D, and can also improve cardiovascular fitness and joint mobility. An after-work trail walk with or without the fur children improves muscle strength, decreases stress and helps to alleviate depression. These are just a couple of great options to get you up, out and moving should you want to forgo traditional indoor fitness settings.

Lakeland provides as many indoor opportunities as it does outdoor opportunities, so whether you want to cycle, row in a sauna, get a 15-minute blast, or simply lift, the city has not only what you need but definitely what you want.

As you take care of yourself and your family, remember that regular check-ins and check-ups are important. Activity helps to keep you out of the hospital, but if you need a healthcare organization, St. Francis Bartlett is your community care provider.

GATEWAY TO CHANGE

By Michael Walker, City Manager

Change is inevitable. Some changes make people nostalgic for the old days, but some are welcomed and improve neighborhoods and cities. Over the past 12 to 18 months, the City of Lakeland has gone through several changes, including a newly elected mayor and commissioners. Under Mayor Josh Roman’s leadership, a new vision and direction for the City of Lakeland materialized in one key location, the Lakeland Gateway.

The Lakeland Gateway includes the area on the north side of the interchange at Canada Road and Interstate 40 in the heart of the city. It extends to the city’s border on the west along Davies Plantation Road and east off Canada Road to the point at which Beverle Rivera Drive and Huff N Puff Road would meet, if connected.

Prior to the change in Lakeland’s Board of Commissioners, an important development was presented for approval in its early

stages. Already approved in outline plan, the Ashmont development will include commercial and residential spaces. By press time its preliminary development plan will likely have been approved.

To make a major multiple-use project like Ashmont financially feasible, developers often petition the City of Lakeland and Shelby County for tax increment financing. In this scenario, a tax increment financing district (TIF District) has boundaries established. A study of the economic impact of the new development is completed including property taxes, sales taxes and new employment, and is submitted for approval by the Industrial Development Board, a separate legal entity from the City of Lakeland, the City of Lakeland’s Board of Commissioners, and the Shelby County Board of Commissioners. The Lakeland Gateway TIF District was fully approved by all these bodies in February 2023.

With the Lakeland Gateway TIF District, the Ashmont development is the key component generating the financial mechanism through which redevelopment occurs. In a TIF District, both local Lakeland property taxes and Shelby County property taxes help fund the cost of infrastructure, including public improvements. The “increment” in a tax increment financing district is the increased taxes at full build-out of new development, compared to the base rate of property taxes on the undeveloped site. With the Lakeland Gateway TIF District, Ashmont Development and the City of Lakeland will share the new taxes generated to cover the cost of improvements.

For Ashmont, located on 99 acres of undeveloped land, the TIF funds will pay for items such as streets, sewer service and utility extensions. For the City of Lakeland, TIF funds can be used for land acquisition, services and even to construct public buildings. This is very good news for the City of Lakeland, as it allows Mayor Roman and the Board of Commissioners’ other goals to be accomplished for the area. Those goals include revitalization of several existing properties, potentially replacing them with public amenities and services.

Since receiving approval for the Lakeland Gateway TIF, the City has gone full speed ahead. In 2023, Lakeland purchased the Econolodge site on Huff N Puff Road through mediation in a condemnation proceeding, and also acquired land across the street next to the Super 8. With an expected closing

date in early 2024, the City approved the purchase of the Relax Inn on Canada Road. Also expected to close in early 2024 is the City’s purchase of vacant land adjacent to the Econolodge site. The Econolodge has been demolished, and immediately upon acquisition, the City plans to take down the Relax Inn, as well.

Plans for the Econolodge site include a new Lakeland Recreation Center, operated by the YMCA of the Midsouth. The Relax Inn site will likely become home to Shelby County Sheriff’s Office administrative space, and unspecified City of Lakeland facilities.

None of the changes that are occurring in the Gateway area would have been possible without public support of the mayor’s initiatives. In the year ahead, the area will continue its transformation from a dated, dull interchange to the vibrant and exciting entryway into Lakeland life.

1% Lists Midsouth www.1percentlistsmidsouth.com

2 Rivers Realty, LLC www.2riversrealtors.com

Amber Nichols, Crye-Leike Realtors www.ambernichols.crye-leike.com/

Amy Foster, Affiliate Broker - Bryan Realty www.bryanrealty.com

Billy Rodgers, Crye-Leike Realtors www.mrrodgers.crye-leike.com

Bryan Realty Group, Michael and April Bryan www.bryanrealty.com

Cat Wright, The FIRM, Memphis Real Estate thefirmmemphis.com

Crye-Leike Realtors - Sharon Brown www.sharonbrown.crye-leike.com

Crye-Leike Realtors - Kelbert Fagan kelbert.crye-leike.com

GROOME CO & REALTORS www.groomeco.com/

Lumiere Team at Keller Williams www.lumiererealty.com

Phone # 901 554-4376

Phone # 901 616-6181

Phone # 901 283-7580

Phone # 518 586-1016

Phone # 901 569-2274

Phone # 901 849-5185

Phone # 901 494-7450

Phone # 901 355-7271

Phone # 901 314-0690

Phone # 901 380-4418

Phone # 901 451-2001

Patterson Homes Real Estate Co. kimberlytownsend.pattersonhomes.realestate

Rachel Goss - Reid Realtors www.reidrealtors.com/agents/rachel-goss/

Carolyn Gregory - Crye-Leike Realtors www.carolyngregory.crye-leike.com

Weichert Realtors SPM www.weichertspm.com

Woven Homes with RE/Max Experts www.remax.com

RECREATION/TOURISM

Phone # 901 495-0149

Phone # 901 857-9371

Phone # 901 486-7490

Phone # 901 340-7708

Phone # 901 833-0658

Colonial Country Club www.colonialcountryclub.org Phone # 901 388-6150

Lakeland Golf Club www.lakelandgolf.club Phone # 901 382-1886

Malco www.malco.com Phone #