Lakeland, Florida – A new 2.5-mile extension to the Fort Frasier Trail is now open to the public, connecting Bartow and Lakeland and offering residents a scenic route for walking, running, and biking. The expansion, a collaborative effort between Polk County, the City of Lakeland, and Orlando Health Watson Clinic Lakeland Highlands Hospital, was officially unveiled recently, adding to the trail’s existing eight-mile stretch. This project underscores a growing commitment to community health and accessible outdoor recreation in central Florida.
The newly completed section, known as the Holloway Family Trail, was made possible by a land donation from Orlando Health Watson Clinic Lakeland Highlands Hospital when the hospital purchased the property. The trail features a notable bridge spanning a wetland area, enhancing the natural beauty of the path. The $4.5 million extension begins off Glendale Avenue, near Lakeland Highlands Road, and runs alongside the Polk Parkway, providing convenient access for residents throughout the region. The Fort Frasier Trail itself follows the path of a former CSX Railroad line and is named for a fort established in 1837 during the Second Seminole War, a piece of local history now interwoven with recreational opportunities.
Beyond its historical connection, the trail offers a variety of natural landscapes for users to enjoy. Visitors can experience shaded tree canopies, open pastures, and dedicated rest areas, including picnic shelters and trestle bridges. The trail’s design prioritizes accessibility and enjoyment for all, encouraging physical activity and a connection with the outdoors. The opening ceremony was attended by Polk County Commissioners, Lakeland City Commissioner Terry Coney, and representatives from both the county and city staff, as well as the Orlando Health Watson Clinic Lakeland Highlands Hospital team.
A Commitment to Community Wellness
Carlos Carrasco, president of Orlando Health Watson Clinic Lakeland Highlands Hospital, emphasized the hospital’s dedication to improving the health of the communities it serves. “Orlando Health’s mission is to improve the health and quality of life of individuals in the communities we serve, much as the Holloway Family Trail is a commitment to the health and wellness of the community here,” Carrasco stated during the opening event. He also highlighted the benefit the trail will provide to the hospital’s more than 1,500 team members, offering a convenient and healthy outlet for exercise.
The connection between accessible outdoor spaces and public health was further underscored by Mark Mines, MD, chief medical officer and a cardiologist at the hospital. Dr. Mines explained that even moderate physical activity, such as a 30-minute brisk walk, can significantly improve cardiovascular health. The American Heart Association confirms that regular physical activity lowers blood pressure, improves cholesterol levels, and aids in weight management, all crucial factors in reducing the risk of heart attack.
Expanding Recreational Opportunities in Polk County
The Fort Frasier Trail extension represents a significant investment in Polk County’s recreational infrastructure. The trail now spans a total of 10 miles, providing a continuous pathway for cyclists, pedestrians, and runners. The project aligns with broader efforts to promote active lifestyles and enhance the quality of life for residents. Polk County officials have noted the increasing demand for outdoor recreational spaces and are exploring further opportunities to expand the county’s trail network.
The Holloway Family Trail’s unique bridge over the wetlands is a particular highlight, offering a scenic vantage point for observing local wildlife. The trail’s design incorporates environmentally sensitive practices, minimizing its impact on the surrounding ecosystem. The combination of natural beauty and accessibility makes the trail a valuable asset for both residents and visitors.
Orlando Health’s Broader Impact
Orlando Health, a private not-for-profit healthcare system, serves Florida, Alabama, and Puerto Rico with a network of medical centers, hospitals, and physician practices. With approximately $14 billion in assets under management, the organization is a major healthcare provider in the southeastern United States. Orlando Health’s website details its commitment to community benefit programs, providing nearly $2 billion in such initiatives in fiscal year 2024, including addressing healthcare disparities and investing in community health improvements.
Watson Clinic, one of the largest multispecialty medical clinics in the southeast, has been serving the Lakeland community since 1941. With over 200 board-certified physicians representing more than 40 specialties, Watson Clinic provides comprehensive healthcare services across Polk, Pasco, and Hillsborough counties. More information about Watson Clinic and its services can be found at www.WatsonClinic.com.
The opening of the Holloway Family Trail and the broader Fort Frasier Trail extension demonstrate a collaborative approach to community development, bringing together healthcare providers, local government, and residents to create a healthier and more vibrant Polk County. As the Orlando Health Watson Clinic Lakeland Highlands Hospital prepares to open in July, the trail will serve as a valuable resource for both its staff and the wider community.
Looking ahead, Polk County officials are evaluating potential future expansions of the trail network, aiming to connect more communities and provide even greater access to outdoor recreation. The success of the Fort Frasier Trail extension serves as a model for future projects, demonstrating the positive impact of investing in community health and well-being.
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