have a deep affection for the town and are committed to staying, appreciating its familiarity, authenticity, and sense of home. The downtown area fosters a strong sense of community, with residents and tourists enjoying various activities, visiting shops, and dining at some of the great local restaurants. Momentum is building as these revitalization efforts continue. The community is being challenged to imagine what future generations will say about the institutions established, the buildings built, parks and green spaces created, the trees planted and businesses established today. These efforts are expected to make a significant statement about the importance of this moment in the town’s history, both now and in the future. REVITALIZING THE DOWNTOWN CORE Avon Park’s downtown mall, a mile-long stretch with a wide, picturesque median, extends from U.S. 27 eastward to Lake Verona and City Hall. This scenic area, part of State Road 64, a state-owned road, has been central to the town’s history. The mall remains a standout feature in the area, one that is revered as part of a historic profile and looked upon as a beautiful space with the potential to be of great significance for this town that is redefining its role in Highlands County. The State Department of Transportation held a workshop to discuss potential enhancements to Avon Park’s downtown mall, with a focus on parking, outdoor seating, and infrastructure improvements. A key concern is the disruption caused by trucks passing through the area. Various solutions are being considered, including structural and aesthetic approaches, such as traffic calming features, narrowing roads, and brick paving. There is also the possibility of converting the roads to one-way streets to accommodate angled parking.These changes are expected to manage traffic flow more effectively and encourage drivers to slow down and appreciate the scenic surroundings. The city is actively engaged in beautification efforts, working with Public Works to introduce a variety of flowers and native plants that support pollinators. With a strong agricultural industry that has been 61 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 09 AVON PARK, FL
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