Incentive programs breathe new life into Lakeland’s Dixieland district

LAKELAND, Fla. - While it may be hard to see past empty storefronts and countless “for lease” signs, the people in Lakeland's Dixieland are fighting for attention and to bring back what they once had.

And it appears they may be well on their way.

“A lot of people used to drive through, but now they’re looking, they’re seeing, and they’re stopping,” said Diana Simmons, who just opened Butterfly Bistro in Dixieland.

Simmons was the first small business owner to take advantage of a sweet deal offered by Lakeland’s Community Redevelopment Agency.

“What we’re trying to do is revitalize the area through incentive programs,” said Nicole Travis, CRA Project Manager.

One of the programs is for new restaurants. The city will match up to $15,000 dollars for kitchen equipment.

In Simmons' case, regulations required her to invest in a stove ventilation system.

It cost her almost $30,000, but through the program, the city will reimburse her half of that.

Without the city’s help, Simmons' dream would probably still be just a dream.

“We started the second of January -- new year, new business,” she said. “And we are doing wonderful. I am so blessed.”

The Butterfly Bistro isn’t the only business jumping at the incentive. Another restaurant is set to open in Dixieland in a couple months.

Travis says there are several others looking into as well.

“You’re just starting to see small changes with small amounts of money that are making a big difference on the corridor overall,” Travis said.

Despite some concerns over parking, other businesses within the district are excited about its potential.

The Petals Flower Shoppe has been in business for more than 20 years. Owner Linda Vinesett sees this revitalization as a win-win.

“That’s going to help me. It’s going to help her. It’s going to help all of us -- just draw people to the area,” she said.

The incentive programs will remain in place until the money runs out.