Insight Polk examines community conditions and solutions in six target areas: economic & employment opportunity, education, housing, food security, transportation & infrastructure, and quality of life.
LkldNow’s Insight Polk independent reporting is made possible by the Community Indicators Project with funding by GiveWell Community Foundation & United Way of Central Florida. All editorial decisions are made by LkldNow.
Florida Poly Opens New Wendt Engineering Center to Boost Innovation
The 40,000-square-foot center expands Florida Poly’s engineering labs, adding room for future AI and cybersecurity learning.
Florida Poly, Sittadel Join Forces to Grow Polk’s Cybersecurity Workforce
The collaboration creates a training ground where students can safely learn to defend against digital threats.
New Lakeland High–FSC Partnership Sparks Early Pathway for Future Educators
Polk County’s new Educator Academy gives Lakeland High students a head start in teaching.
The Benefits Cliff: Why a Raise Is Hurting One Full-Time Working Mom in Polk County
A Polk County Schools employee faces the “benefits cliff” after a modest raise, with food and transportation costs squeezing every paycheck.
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Polk Test Scores Show Statewide Lag But District-wide Gains
New data shows more Polk students scoring at lower proficiency levels, while district officials point to multi-year growth in reading, math, science and social studies.
Teens Turn the Page: Lakeland’s Banned Book Club Gives Youth a Voice
In a state where book access is under scrutiny, two Polk County teens create a safe space to read freely — and discover the power of choice.
Polk County Teens Access Free Formalwear Through UthMpact
Free prom and homecoming attire is available to Polk County teens, who also sign a pledge to celebrate responsibly.
Florida Poly’s Record Enrollment Builds Polk’s STEM Workforce
Florida Poly’s growth reflects rising demand for affordable, innovative STEM education.
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Polk County’s Food Relief Gears Up as SNAP Benefits Lapse
Up to 85,000 Polk County residents could lose access to grocery assistance.
Hungry in Polk: Local Efforts Help Make Sure Children Don’t Go Without
Polk County food insecurity leaves thousands of children hungry — kidsPACK, Publix and local food pantries step in.
Meet ALICE: Earning Above Poverty, Falling Short on Basics
A local father shares what it’s like to live paycheck-to-paycheck, despite decades of work experience — and why he believes more people are ALICE than we realize.
I Looked for Groceries in a Lakeland Food Desert
It did not go well.
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Residents Voice Concerns at Lakeland Housing Authority Board Meeting
Residents and community leaders voiced concerns at Monday’s Lakeland Housing Authority meeting, prompting calls for greater accountability and public dialogue.
‘Legacy Homes’ Could Be Coming to Lakeland’s North Side
Lakeland Habitat for Humanity is moving closer to a housing fix for some north-side seniors.
Housing for Young Professionals or Future ‘Slum Area’? Commission Splits 5-2 on Townhome Plan
Developer wants to build 30 townhomes on a CRA-owned block north of Memorial Boulevard.
Nonprofits Offer ‘Safety Net of Last Resort’ to Families Displaced by Milton
Essential repairs will be performed at no charge for some storm-battered homeowners.
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Free Bus Rides for LVIM Patients Now on Citrus Connection
Free Citrus Connection rides help remove a persistent obstacle to care, essentials and work across Polk County.
Stay Active, Stay Cool: Safe Fitness Tips for Polk County Seniors
Practical fitness tips, hydration hacks, and cool alternatives to help seniors stay active in Florida’s heat.
YMCA Expands After-School Programs to Support Working Families in Polk County
New and returning YMCA sites offer affordable care, academic enrichment, and flexible scheduling for parents.
County Launches Arts in Medicine Initiative
Polk County is redefining the arts… as public health infrastructure.
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Citrus Connection Expands Evening Service to Meet Rider Needs
FDOT grant extends evening bus hours to support Polk workers and families
Lakeland Electric Rate Increases Tied to Fuel and Environmental Costs
Typical household to see about $3.20 added to monthly bill as city covers environmental costs and fuel hikes.
Memorial Boulevard: Can a New Homeless Shelter and Economic Revitalization Coexist?
‘Memorial Works’ crew would give homeless people stipends for cleaning, landscaping and beautification.
Transit: City Says Bus Shelters Are… Complicated
Advertisers could provide needed shelters for free. City leaders say, not so fast.
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