Publix Secures Approval to Transform Historic 21K SF Florida Building into IT Campus Parking

In a strategic move, Publix is reshaping the landscape of downtown Lakeland by tearing down the 85-year-old Florida Citrus Mutual building. The company aims to make way for a parking lot to support its burgeoning technology campus. Demolition efforts kicked off recently, marking a significant transformation for the iconic site.

City's Unanimous Approval Paves the Way

The Lakeland City Commission, in a unanimous decision, greenlit Publix's request for a conditional use permit to demolish the aged 21,000-square-foot building at 411 E. Orange St. The approval signals a departure from the city's previous stance on surface-level parking lots, emphasizing a shift toward downtown development. Notably, Publix faced initial resistance when proposing the demolition in June 2022. Despite city staff recommending a temporary parking lot for five years, the approval came without a set timeline for redevelopment in August.

Publix's Strategic Acquisition and Technological Vision

Publix made a significant acquisition in November 2016, purchasing the historic Florida Citrus Mutual Building for $3.1 million. The decision to demolish was influenced by the company's reluctance to occupy the aging structure, citing maintenance costs. The grocer's ambitious plans involve merging the former FedEx building, acquired in June 2022, with existing offices between Kentucky and Tennessee avenues. This amalgamation will give rise to a cutting-edge technology campus, set to bring "hundreds of high-skill, high-wage jobs" downtown, with an average annual salary surpassing 250% of the Polk County average wage.

Development Stipulations and Urban Enhancements

As part of the city's approval, Publix is obligated to construct a minimum 4,000-square-foot pedestrian plaza at the northwest corner of the property. This plaza, positioned at the intersection of Orange Street and Massachusetts Avenue, is envisioned to enhance the urban landscape. Additionally, Publix is committed to preserving existing trees around the lot perimeter, safeguarding them from the demolition process. These conditions align with the city's vision of a revitalized downtown, balancing technological progress with sustainable urban enhancements.