Preparations Get Underway For Lake Howard Trail Nature Park Enhancements

WINTER HAVEN, FL — The city of Winter Haven is inviting residents Tuesday evening to learn more about and offer their opinions regarding the South Lake Hoard Trail Nature Park Enhancements Project.

The South Lake Howard Nature Park opened 2001. The park has stormwater ponds and infrastructure that help filter and clean stormwater before it streams into Lake Howard from the surrounding neighborhoods and roadways. Loop trails that range from 1/4 to a mile, picnic areas and boardwalks assist with the stormwater.

Recently, the city bought the adjacent property, formerly home of WSIR Radio, and this site will potentially be developed in a similar fashion and serve as an expansion of the nature park. Winter Haven is working on the first steps of improving stormwater to further help filter and provide clean run off from nearby neighborhoods and streets prior to going into the lake.

The open house meeting will feature future plans such as expanding trails and boardwalks, outdoor classrooms, disc golf, kayak launch and more. A Florida Recreational Development Assistance Program grant application will be submitted in October to help with funding for these amenities, the city said.

If you would like to attend this meeting, it is Tuesday, Sept. 21, from 5 — 6:30 p.m. at the South Lake Howard Nature Park, 1570 Lake Howard Drive Southwest, Winter Haven. Attendees will meet near the picnic areas.

If you have questions or would like more information, contact Jennifer Burke at jburke@mywinterhaven.com or the Parks, Recreation & Culture Department at 863-29105656.