A bill awaiting the signature of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis will finalize the establishment of the Lake Wales “Arts, Culture and Entertainment District.” The new Florida statute adds the city’s district to a list of other Florida communities with districts permitting the consumption of alcohol while strolling the area.
Robert Connors
City officials are addressing downtown revitalization from multiple fronts, including the investment in new streetscapes. The historic Walesbilt hotel is also subject to the city’s attention and redevelopment is expected to begin this year to return the hotel to service after decades of vacancy.
The downtown district was created in an ordinance passed last year by the city commission. It will permit residents and visitors to purchase beer, wine, or a mixed drink from registered establishments within the area. The ability to enjoy an adult beverage while exploring the shops of the city’s historic center is the newest addition to an array of measures adopted by the Lake Wales City Commission and Community Redevelopment Agency intended to stimulate the economic rebirth of the area.
The area is already host to a number of special events that permit such activities, including the planned April 9 “Cork and Keys” wine walk hosted by Lake Wales Main Street.
The district is bounded by Central and Orange Avenues, First Street and Scenic Highway. The newly redesigned Market Plaza, a center of activity including concerts and special events, lies at the heart of the district.
The ordinance is intended to encourage potential investment in new entertainment-oriented businesses within the district, with increased foot traffic and ‘night life’ the intended result. It’s expected to make the district more attractive to business owners looking to open new bars, restaurants and entertainment venues. Liquor stores and nightclubs are excluded from participating in the ACE district program.
Courtesy Lake Wales Main Street
The April 9 Cork and Keys Wine Walk is an example of the type of activities that city officials hope will help boost economic activity in the city’s beautiful historic center.
“This economic strategy has proven to boost foot traffic and business in other U.S. cities, but more importantly the ACE district will create a sense of place in our downtown,” said City Manager James Slaton in describing the district.
Lake Wales is the first city in Polk County to make the strategic move, which has proved very successful in helping to create vibrant city centers in cities as varied at Panama City, FL, Asheville, NC., and Savannah, GA. The local ordinance passed on a 3-2 vote, with City Commissioners Carol Gillespie and Daniel Williams opposing it.
Lush new landscaping and other improvements have created an ideal setting for new retail and entertainment-oriented businesses in downtown Lake Wales. The ACE district ordinance is designed to increase that appeal.
At present only two businesses, both restaurants, serve alcohol within the district. Melanie’s Seafood Company and The Thirsty Dragon representatives have not confirmed that they will participate in the program, which requires them to provide guests with clear plastic cups marked with the business name.
Policies, business registration details, and signage to be used as boundary markers are in development by City staff.