2-minute read
Dixieland residents and business owners are asking Citrus Connection to extend its free “Squeeze” shuttle service into their neighborhood, creating a direct link between Dixieland and downtown.
The Squeeze provides free rides on eight-passenger, “street-legal” golf carts around downtown Lakeland. It stops at the RP Funding Center and Florida Southern College on weekends. It also provides service to special events like Mayfaire; Red, White & Kaboom and Bienvenido a BSP.
Citrus Connection debuted the service in November 2021, with support from sponsors including the Lakeland Downtown Development Authority. It was hailed as the nation’s first public transit golf-cart program.
In July, it announced “Squeeze Plus” — passenger vans that replace the electric carts in rainy weather.
Last month, the transit agency announced that it was extending weekend hours from 11 p.m. until 2 a.m. to support nightlife and promote safe transportation.
Making their case
In a recent open letter posted on Facebook, several residents and merchants applauded the extra hours and urged the microtransit service to consider expanding south into Dixieland.
“Dixieland is a vibrant, historic area that has seen incredible growth and investment in recent years. Areas that have particularly grown include live music, retail and dining scenes that are locally owned, grown and supported,” it said.
Residents suggested stops including Good Thyme, Cob & Pen, Born & Bread Bakehouse, Union Hall, The Pink Piano, By the Chef Pizza, The Wine Garden, Ajax Auto Place and Dixieland Relics.
Supporters say the change would:
- Boost foot traffic for small businesses.
- Ease parking pressure downtown.
- Give residents without cars an easy connection to jobs and entertainment.
- Strengthen ties between Dixieland and the city core.
“This is so important,” resident Jeni Lamberto said. “It’s so difficult for patrons to find an available Lyft or Uber on busy evenings. They become stranded trying to do the right thing and leaving their cars behind. This will save lives and really increase the desire to go out at night in Dixieland.”
What’s next: Tom Phillips, general manager of Citrus Connection, said he has asked his team to prepare some route and cost options for the organization’s next board meeting at 8:30 a.m. on Oct. 8 at 1212 George Jenkins Blvd. in the Hollingsworth Board Room.
One consideration will be crossing South Florida Avenue, which Phillips said can only be done at Orange Street. A Dixieland route would likely make use of side streets and the alleyway behind businesses.
About ‘The Squeeze’
- Cost: Free
- Lunchtime hours: Monday to Friday from 11 a.m.–2 p.m.
- Weekend hours: Fridays from 4 p.m.–2 a.m., Saturdays from 8 a.m.–3 p.m. and 4 p.m.–2 a.m.
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