Improvements to the Harbor at Lake Henry Accepted by the City of Winter Haven
by James Coulter
Much-needed improvements to sewer, water, wastewater, and other infrastructure within a 36+ acre subdivision have been formally accepted by the City of Winter Haven.
At their regular meeting on Mon. Jan. 27, Winter Haven city commissioners voted unanimously to approve a resolution confirming acceptance of improvements, infrastructure, and dedications for the Harbor at Lake Henry Subdivision.
Located south of the east intersection of Old Lucerne Park Road and Lucerne Park Road (SR-544), Harbor at Lake Henry is a 36+ acre subdivision containing 179 building lots and 14 common lots.
“On August 26, 2024, the City Commission approved Resolution R-24-38 platting the Harbor at Lake Henry Subdivision; however, certain improvements were not completed at that time,” wrote Chris Young, Senior Planner, in the city agenda memo.
To ensure the subdivision received all the necessary infrastructure and improvements to guarantee completion, the developer, Harbor at Lake Henry, submitted a bond for $313,258 to help cover the costs of the remaining improvements.
“Incomplete improvements included earthwork, sanitary sewer, potable water, stormwater management, and engineering certification,” Young wrote.
“Recent inspections by staff found all incomplete improvements are now complete, and the water, wastewater, and reuse utilities along with internal road rights-of-way can now be accepted by the City,” he continued.
During public comments, local resident Ernestine Davis asked the commissioners about the possibility of installing a stoplight at the intersection of the easternmost connection of Lucerne Park Road.
Mayor Pro Tem Nathanial Birdsong replied that the City of Winter Haven does not have control over the installation of stop lights, as that was a matter handled by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), not the city.
He did mention that a roundabout was installed near the subdivision, which hopefully should help alleviate traffic problems.
“The roundabout is supposed to bring some relief in the area,” he said. “It is a challenge to access Lucerne in those areas. It is dangerous… So hopefully, that will bring some assistance or help.”
