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Frame The Importance of

Commercial Truck Insurance in Lakeland, FL

  • Let's face it - truckers in America have always been the backbone of our great country. They still are in modern times. On any given day, thousands of trucks traverse our highways and local roads, delivering goods and products on time so that businesses and consumers have what they need to live life. And while commercial trucking can be an incredibly lucrative way to make a living and put food on the table, it can also be risky and expensive.
  • Whether you're the owner of a fleet, an independent trucker, or have a business that uses big rigs to transport goods, you need commercial trucking insurance to protect you and your client's investments, shield you from liability, and more.
  • That's where working with a reliable truck insurance agency comes into play. Unfortunately, for many commercial truck insurance providers, serving the needs of truckers is low on the proverbial totem pole. At Independence Insurance Agency, nothing could be further from the truth.

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percent The Commercial Truck

Insurance Agency in Lakeland, FL You Can Trust

Much like you pride yourself on running a successful trucking business, Independence Insurance Agency prides itself on its years of experience providing truck insurance for hardworking men and women across the country. And in our experience, insurance rates for truckers are just too high - so high, in fact, that they eat away at their bottom line, making it more difficult to run a business and make a profit. Fortunately, at Independence Insurance Agency, we provide truckers the freedom they need from astronomically high insurance rates so they can stay on the road and keep driving America forward.

As one of the most trusted commercial trucking insurance agencies in the U.S., we understand the challenges that you face daily as a trucker. We also know how important it is to protect your business. That's why we go above and beyond to find you the best-priced coverage available, whether you're an operator, own a small fleet, a large fleet, or something in between.

Commercial Truck Insurance Lakeland, FL

We Put Truckers First Because Others Don't

 Truck Insurance Lakeland, FL

Truckers across the country choose to work with Independence Insurance Agency because we put their needs first before anything else. As experts in transportation insurance, we proudly offer a range of quality insurance products that are both practical and affordable for them. Our industry-leading carriers provide coverage that caters to the unique challenges faced by the trucking industry, ensuring that your business is protected at all times.

At our core, we are committed to finding the best possible price for your coverage without compromising the quality of service you deserve. The truth is, we understand how essential truckers are to the United States and take pride in making their insurance experience more streamlined and affordable.

One way we do so is by simplifying the insurance process. Our transportation specialists take the time to understand your specific needs and budget to tailor a comprehensive plan that works for you. You won't ever have to worry about cookie-cutter plans or uninterested agents when you work with our commercial trucking insurance agency. We take an educational approach to ensure that the entire big rig insurance process is quick, painless, and easy to understand. If there's something you don't understand, we're happy to take the time to explain. After all, the success and safety of your business are on the line.

Looking to the future, we are committed to providing innovative new products that cater to the ever-changing needs of truck drivers. As your one-stop shop for commercial trucking insurance, we are dedicated to your success, one policy at a time.

If you're a commercial trucker looking to ensure your rig, you can rest easy knowing that Independence Insurance Agency provides:

  • Affordable Trucking Insurance Plans for Any Budget
  • Exemplary Customer Service
  • Seasoned Transportation Specialists Who Customize Plans to Your Needs
  • A+ Carriers Across the Country
  • Simple, Easy Quote and Bind Process
  • Multiple Insurance Carriers Quoted to Find You the Best Rates
  • Truck Insurance for New Ventures

Call us or send us a message today to learn more about the best 18-wheeler insurance options for your trucking business.

chart The Commercial Truck

Common Types of Big Rig Truck Insurance in Lakeland, FL

At Independence Insurance Agency, we offer several types of insurance coverage for local, intermediate, and long-haul trucking needs. Here are just a few categories of trucking insurance coverage that our agency offers.

As the foundation of your insurance policy, liability coverage is required by law in most states in the U.S. It provides coverage for damage or injuries caused to properties or other people if your 18-wheeler is responsible for the crash. Without liability coverage, it's almost impossible to drive a truck or run a trucking business without major legal consequences.

Having physical damage coverage is an essential component that shouldn't be overlooked. This insurance is responsible for covering the expenses related to repairing or replacing your truck in situations such as accidents, theft, vandalism, and other damaging events. By having this coverage, you can rest assured that your business won't be affected significantly by unexpected incidents, and you can continue running your operations smoothly even in challenging times.

For trucking companies, the goods they transport are crucial to their operations. To protect these goods from damage, loss, or theft while in transit, cargo insurance is essential. This coverage provides much-needed peace of mind for both you and your clients, allowing you to reimburse clients for any losses sustained while protecting your reputation and brand identity.

Non-Trucking Liability Insurance is designed to cover property damage or bodily injury that may occur during personal time when the driver/truck is not under dispatch. This coverage can be applied with or without a trailer and is added to a commercial policy as an endorsement.

While Independence Insurance Agency has built a reputation of excellence in serving the needs of truckers, we also offer general liability. Also known as Truckers General Liability, this coverage insures for bodily injuries or property damage that happen due to business activities that are NOT the cause of operating a truck. It covers accidents that occur in parking lots, rest stops, also while loading or unloading. General liability can also cover losses related to theft and vandalism. Most brokers and shippers will require this coverage to work with you.

Bobtail insurance is a type of coverage that is comparable to non-trucking liability, which is designed to offer protection when driving a truck without a trailer attached. This is commonly referred to as "bobtailing." With bobtail insurance, the tractor is covered at all times, even when it is not attached to a trailer, regardless of whether or not the truck is under dispatch.

Trailer interchange insurance is a must-have if you're involved in a trailer interchange agreement. This essential coverage offers protection for trailers owned by other parties that you're using under a contractual agreement. It covers damages caused by collisions, fire, theft, and vandalism, providing assurance to all parties involved.

Curious whether our commercial truck insurance agency in cityname, state offers additional coverage? The following options can be bound in your insurance policy:

  • Business Interruption Insurance
  • Reefer Breakdown Insurance
  • Occupational Accident with Contract Liability Insurance
  • Rental Reimbursement Insurance
  • Underinsured or Uninsured Motorist Insurance
  • Towing Insurance
  • Electronics Insurance
  • Much More

Three plus 3 Safe Driving Tips to

Lower the Cost of Truck Insurance in Lakeland, FL

Keeping your drivers safe on the road is crucial not only for their own well-being but also for the safety of other motorists and the financial stability of your business. The Department of Labor has identified the trucking industry as one of the most hazardous sectors in the U.S. In fact, trucking and logistics fleets are known for their high injury and fatality rates. By improving how safely your truckers drive, you can help reduce expenses related to claim payouts, accidents, and insurance premium hikes.

Whether you own a large fleet or you're the owner and operator of a single rig, keep these safe driving tips in mind to help lower your insurance costs.

Implement Preventative Maintenance Plans

Ensuring the safety of your drivers begins with the safety of their vehicles. Trucks and tractor-trailers that do not receive regular maintenance, such as oil and brake pad changes, are more likely to experience breakdowns while on the road. Telematics devices provide real-time insight into engine and odometer data, including fault codes.

This information enables your mechanics to create comprehensive preventative maintenance schedules based on mileage, history of previous breakdowns, days, and more. Additionally, they can receive immediate notifications for critical fault codes. By implementing routine maintenance and proactive repair schedules, you can ensure that your vehicles are in top condition, minimizing the likelihood of breakdowns, which can help reduce the cost of trucker insurance.

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 Trucking Insurance Lakeland, FL

Practice Defensive Driving

This approach aims to mitigate the risk of fatal crashes and injuries by proactively identifying and responding to potentially dangerous situations and making informed decisions while driving. By adopting defensive driving techniques, drivers can reduce their likelihood of accidents, thereby minimizing the need for expensive repairs, claim payouts, and increased insurance premiums.

Some of the easiest ways for you or your drivers to practice safe driving include:

  • Be Wary of Blind Spots: Operating a reefer or tractor-trailer means driving high off of the ground, which can make visibility limited, especially in blind spots. To check your blind spot, look over your shoulder and out of your windows while changing lanes.
  • Be Ready for Emergencies on the Road: It's important for drivers to be ready for unexpected situations when driving, especially during long trips. They should be equipped to handle emergencies such as poor driving conditions or big rig breakdowns.
  • Use the Three-Second Rule: Truck drivers should try to maintain a three-second gap between their vehicle and the car in front of them. This means that the truck driver should reach a certain point on the road three seconds after the car in front of them has passed that same point.
  • Always Use Right and Left Turn Indicators: It's important for drivers to always use their turn signals when changing lanes or exiting highways, even if they don't see any other cars around. This is not only required by law, but it also reduces the chances of accidents occurring on the road.
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 Commercial Liability Insurance For Truckers Lakeland, FL

Find Ways to Prevent Distracted Driving

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), distracted driving is the primary reason behind truck driver accidents. Any activity that takes a driver's attention away from the road or the steering wheel is considered distracted driving. Distractions can come in various forms, such as eating while driving or gazing at a billboard outside the window. However, the most frequent form of distracted driving is the use of cellphones, specifically texting while driving.

Assuming you or your driver's rigs are equipped with dual-facing cameras, try reviewing footage of an unsafe driving incident. Coach your drivers on ways to correct their unsafe behaviors or look up ways to do so yourself if you're the one operating the big rig. The bottom line is that when your drivers aren't distracted, they drive safer. And when they drive safer, the cost of 18-wheeler insurance in cityname, state can be reduced.

phone Call Now
 Commercial Truck Insurance Quote Lakeland, FL

Ensuring the safety of your drivers begins with the safety of their vehicles. Trucks and tractor-trailers that do not receive regular maintenance, such as oil and brake pad changes, are more likely to experience breakdowns while on the road. Telematics devices provide real-time insight into engine and odometer data, including fault codes.

This information enables your mechanics to create comprehensive preventative maintenance schedules based on mileage, history of previous breakdowns, days, and more. Additionally, they can receive immediate notifications for critical fault codes. By implementing routine maintenance and proactive repair schedules, you can ensure that your vehicles are in top condition, minimizing the likelihood of breakdowns, which can help reduce the cost of trucker insurance.

 Low Priced Commercial Truck Insurance Lakeland, FL phone Call Now

This approach aims to mitigate the risk of fatal crashes and injuries by proactively identifying and responding to potentially dangerous situations and making informed decisions while driving. By adopting defensive driving techniques, drivers can reduce their likelihood of accidents, thereby minimizing the need for expensive repairs, claim payouts, and increased insurance premiums.

Some of the easiest ways for you or your drivers to practice safe driving include:

  • Be Wary of Blind Spots: Operating a reefer or tractor-trailer means driving high off of the ground, which can make visibility limited, especially in blind spots. To check your blind spot, look over your shoulder and out of your windows while changing lanes.
  • Be Ready for Emergencies on the Road: It's important for drivers to be ready for unexpected situations when driving, especially during long trips. They should be equipped to handle emergencies such as poor driving conditions or big rig breakdowns.
  • Use the Three-Second Rule: Truck drivers should try to maintain a three-second gap between their vehicle and the car in front of them. This means that the truck driver should reach a certain point on the road three seconds after the car in front of them has passed that same point.
  • Always Use Right and Left Turn Indicators: It's important for drivers to always use their turn signals when changing lanes or exiting highways, even if they don't see any other cars around. This is not only required by law, but it also reduces the chances of accidents occurring on the road.
Commercial Truck Insurance Lakeland, FL phone Call Now

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), distracted driving is the primary reason behind truck driver accidents. Any activity that takes a driver's attention away from the road or the steering wheel is considered distracted driving. Distractions can come in various forms, such as eating while driving or gazing at a billboard outside the window. However, the most frequent form of distracted driving is the use of cellphones, specifically texting while driving.

Assuming you or your driver's rigs are equipped with dual-facing cameras, try reviewing footage of an unsafe driving incident. Coach your drivers on ways to correct their unsafe behaviors or look up ways to do so yourself if you're the one operating the big rig. The bottom line is that when your drivers aren't distracted, they drive safer. And when they drive safer, the cost of 18-wheeler insurance in cityname, state can be reduced.

 Truck Insurance Lakeland, FL phone Call Now

check light FAQs About

Independence Insurance Agency

If you're looking for a commercial trucking insurance agency for your business, chances are you have some questions - and we've got answers. Keep reading to learn more about some of the most commonly asked questions we hear from truckers like you.

Why go with a "jack of all trades" when you can work with specialists who focus exclusively on transportation insurance? We have excellent relationships with major trucking insurance carriers and, as such, can provide the best assistance and reasonable rates.

Typically, companies will look at claims that date back three years or less.

We proudly work with more than 20 carriers to provide our clients with the most advantageous options at competitive prices, catering to the needs of owner-operators and big fleets alike.

Permit filings are typically done by insurance companies on the next business day. Federal (FMCSA) filings are completed online and updated immediately, while some states may take up to three weeks to process.

Independence Insurance Agency: Committed to the Trucking Industry

There's no question about it - you've got to protect your staff, your rig, and your trucking business with insurance. But choosing the right insurance partner isn't always easy. Thankfully, with Independence Insurance Agency by your side, you can rest easy knowing you're covered no matter where the road takes you. If you're in need of a commercial truck insurance agency in Lakeland, FL that caters to truckers like you, pick up the phone and contact one of our transportation specialists today. That way, you can get back on the road with confidence tomorrow.

 Trucking Insurance Lakeland, FL

Latest News in Lakeland, FL

Lakeland Approves Massive Solar Farm Near Florida Polytechnic University

A massive array of ground-mounted solar panels may soon rise on 1,400 acres of largely undevelopable land near Florida Polytechnic University.The City Commission voted unanimously Monday to allow the solar power generation facility as a conditional use on 2,044 acres of marshy land — east of State Road 33 and North Combee Road and south of University Boulevard.The land is part o...

A massive array of ground-mounted solar panels may soon rise on 1,400 acres of largely undevelopable land near Florida Polytechnic University.

The City Commission voted unanimously Monday to allow the solar power generation facility as a conditional use on 2,044 acres of marshy land — east of State Road 33 and North Combee Road and south of University Boulevard.

The land is part of a nearly 5,000-acre tract that the Williams Acquisition Holding Co. LLC has owned for more than two decades.

Williams, based in Oklahoma, is one of the largest natural gas providers in the U.S. and has major land holdings across the Eastern Seaboard, the Gulf of Mexico, the Rockies and the Pacific Northwest. The company has also invested heavily in new energy ventures including large-scale solar installations.

Much of the property proposed for the solar farm was formerly used for phosphate mining. Because it has poor soil that is not suitable for development, it was zoned for conservation or limited development when it was annexed into the city limits in 2001.

Tom Cloud, a land use attorney with GrayRobinson in Orlando, told the commissioners that the solar farm is a perfect use for land that would otherwise likely sit vacant.

The 200 megawatt solar farm will have dozens of racks of 90 solar panels each that are roughly 153 feet long, 13 feet wide and 15 feet tall. They will rotate 60 degrees from east to west to track the movement of the sun.

An analysis by city planners said the effect on neighboring properties “should be minimal as the project will not generate any significant noise, odors or traffic impacts.” The solar farm would be set back at least 100 feet from State Road 33 and buffered by shrubs or trees and a minimum 6-foot high fence or wall.

“It’s hard to imagine, for me, that you could find a better place for a solar farm,” Cloud said at an agenda study session on Friday. “Most of the ones you see, like if you go up the turnpike or the 429, are readily visible from the highway. … This one is going to have a much better visual footprint because, for the most part, you’re not going to know it’s there.”

The project would be completed in three phases. The first would be on 1,400 acres.

Commissioners had some questions about environmental impact, when they discussed it on Dec. 1 prior to the first reading.

Sara Roberts McCarley said she was generally supportive of the project but wanted to make sure the city was thinking about potential “unintended consequences” in terms of water drainage and how the “wave of mirror” might affect the rain and water cycles.

“If you are elevating the terrain with gravel, you are changing the landscape literally, even though it is a wetland and not suitable for other things. Down the road, are we going to see some environmental impacts into Bridgewater and these other places?” McCarley asked. “Water is going to find its way to go somewhere, especially if we dry out and build these things. So I just think that is a critical component to that whole area.”

In the intervening weeks, her questions were answered to her satisfaction. On Monday, she called it “the highest, best use” of the property.

Commissioner Mike Musick wanted to make sure the city and the Innovation District will benefit from the project. The Central Florida Innovation District is a vision shared by Lakeland, Auburndale, Polk County and other stakeholders to transform the area around Florida Polytechnic University and SunTrax into a high-tech corridor with high-skills, high-wage jobs.

City Planning and Transportation Manager Chuck Barmby said some of the power will go to Lakeland Electric and surveys had taken drainage and environmental concerns into account.

Commissioner Stephanie Madden on Monday thanked the Williams Company for working with the city and Florida Poly to continue nurturing the dream they have for the Innovation District.

“They really sat at our table and with Florida Poly,” she said. “It’s so great when developers and property owners who want to see the vision of a region and how that could radically transform the future for Central Florida.”

Madden recently sounded an alarm at the Dec. 4 commission meeting regarding the city of Auburndale considering a planned warehouse north of Pace Road and east of the Polk Parkway, saying it goes against all of the plans city and county leaders have adopted for a science-and-technology hub anchored by the university.

Lakeland drivers still adjusting to Florida Avenue ‘road diet’

LAKELAND, Fla. – If you’ve driven on South Florida Avenue in Lakeland lately, you’re familiar with the concrete bumpers there.What You Need To Know They are part of the Florida Department of Transportation’s (FDOT) “road diet” there.They are something Kayleigh Harrison sees every day at work.“You can see marks. I think there’s a piece of a tire. There’s all kinds of things,” Harrison said.She’s referring to the numerous tire...

LAKELAND, Fla. – If you’ve driven on South Florida Avenue in Lakeland lately, you’re familiar with the concrete bumpers there.

What You Need To Know

They are part of the Florida Department of Transportation’s (FDOT) “road diet” there.

They are something Kayleigh Harrison sees every day at work.

“You can see marks. I think there’s a piece of a tire. There’s all kinds of things,” Harrison said.

She’s referring to the numerous tire marks from cars that have struck the barricades. Working at Levy’s Imperial Tire on Florida Avenue, she says the business often sees customers come in after running into one of the bumpers.

“People don’t see it. It causes flat tires. Sometimes it’ll eat up a person’s wheel when they blow out a tire. A lot of that adds up pretty quickly,” Harrison said.

The bumpers were installed as part of the “road diet” on South Florida Avenue (State Road 37) in Lakeland’s Dixieland corridor.

FDOT changed the road from four narrow through lanes to two wider lanes, plus a center turning lane. The idea was to improve safety for drivers and pedestrians and get the road up to modern standards.

But it’s led to some traffic complaints.

“It’s supposed to be for pedestrians. But it ends up affecting the cars more than anything,” Harrison said.

FDOT made the change after years of studies and public meetings. Lakeland officials say they have received positive feedback from some business owners. A study also showed that drive times were mostly unaffected by the change.

The city commission voted to make the change permanent in December 2022.

So the road diet is here to stay.

But city officials tell Spectrum News there are plans to at least remove the concrete barriers at some point in an upcoming budget year.

They’ll eventually be replaced with amenities like new sidewalks, streetscapes and bike lanes.

For more information, visit https://www.lakelandgov.net/departments/communications/road-diet/

Stormy Forecast Puts a Damper on Saturday Events in Lakeland

Heavy rain and gusty winds are expected to wash over Lakeland on Saturday, causing many events to be canceled, postponed or moved indoors.The National Weather Service says a low pressure system out of the southeast Gulf of Mexico will bring “widespread heavy rainfall” to our region starting Saturday morning and building throughout the day. ...

Heavy rain and gusty winds are expected to wash over Lakeland on Saturday, causing many events to be canceled, postponed or moved indoors.

The National Weather Service says a low pressure system out of the southeast Gulf of Mexico will bring “widespread heavy rainfall” to our region starting Saturday morning and building throughout the day. AccuWeather is reporting a 100% probability of rain with wind gusts of up to 30 miles per hour.

Cancellations and changes announced so far include:

The Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market is canceled tomorrow. It will return Saturday, Dec. 23.

Julie Townsend, director of the Lakeland Downtown Development Authority, said high winds can be “particularly treacherous for an outdoor market” where tents and canopies can be toppled or become airborne.

The Hmong Community New Year Celebration has been moved from Tigertown to Sikes Hall in the RP Funding Center at 701 W. Lime Street and the event will be slightly different.

There will still be an opening ceremony, history and reflections, games, craft vendors and performances. However, because of the RP Funding Center’s policies banning outside food and beverages, the free community lunch is canceled and vendors will not be selling traditional foods.

In an emotional Facebook post, organizers said they were “upset and disappointed” by the unfortunate circumstances, but thanked the RP Funding Center for being “gracious to accommodate us so very last minute.”

The Artisan Crafters Holiday Market at the Lakeland Antique Mall is canceled. The event was set to feature 35 vendors with handmade, homemade and vintage goods including home decor, candles and baked goods.

The next market will take place on Saturday, Jan. 20.

The in-person portion of the city of Lakeland’s holiday-themed 5k run that was scheduled for Saturday morning has been canceled. Registered runners will be automatically transferred to the virtual option. Or they can defer to next year or receive a refund by emailing events@fitniche.com.

Saturday evening’s 6-8 p.m. Christmas lights display and family events at Bonnet Springs Park have been canceled. Light Up BSP continues every evening from 6 to 8 through New Year’s Eve.

FDOT considering a new road crossing I-4 between Walt Williams and SR 33 in North Lakeland

State traffic planners are considering a new road that would provide a more direct connection between State Road 33 and Walt Williams Road just across Interstate 4, and they're inviting the public to a workshop Tuesday.Currently, people needing to go from one area to the other have two, lengthy, out-of-the-way options. For instance, Bridgewater residents who might need to take children to Wendell Watson Elementary can travel more than a mile south on SR 33 to Old Combee Road, then cross I-4 to Socrum Loop Road, then nor...

State traffic planners are considering a new road that would provide a more direct connection between State Road 33 and Walt Williams Road just across Interstate 4, and they're inviting the public to a workshop Tuesday.

Currently, people needing to go from one area to the other have two, lengthy, out-of-the-way options. For instance, Bridgewater residents who might need to take children to Wendell Watson Elementary can travel more than a mile south on SR 33 to Old Combee Road, then cross I-4 to Socrum Loop Road, then north to Walt Loop Road, then Walt Williams.

The other option is longer, but avoids nasty traffic around Socrum Loop. It involves going north on SR 33 to Tomkow Road, then west on Old Polk City Road to Walt Williams Road.

Residents in the area of Walt Williams Road looking to travel in the other direction have a similar dilemma.

Walt Williams Road is a long, winding road that starts at Walt Loop Road in the west, runs east to I-4, then curves northeast to front the intestate before turning north. From there, it runs alongside Wendell Watson Elementary School before turning sharply to the west, then due north to Old Polk City Road.

The Florida Department of Transportation is looking into the feasibility of a direct route between Walt Williams Road and SR 33 either to the east or west of the Bridgewater development. And planners have four ideas they'll present at Tuesday's workshop, which runs from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Lake Crago Recreation Center, 525 Lake Crago Drive, Lakeland.

Idea 1

The first idea would involve building an eastward extension where Walt Williams turns north to run along I-4. The extension would cross the interstate, then turn due south through a rural pocket before connecting to Lake Luther Road and continuing to SR 33. The FDOT staff report said the benefits to this route are a direct connection to Walt Williams and low environmental impact, such as gopher tortoise and eagle nests. The downsides to the route are residential impacts on the south side of the interstate and its proximity to Old Combee Road.

Idea 2

The second idea would build an extension where Walt Williams turns north, just on the south end of the elementary school. The extension would continue to partially front I-4 through a wooded parcel before crossing the interstate to the north of the Bridgewater neighborhood and connecting with Tradeport Boulevard and eventually SR 33 between Bridgewater and a warehousing development. The staff report said the benefits are it avoids impacts to gopher tortoise and eagle nests and its proximity to the elementary school. It's drawbacks include an impact to wetlands, an awkward geometry for its I-4 crossing, a realignment of Walt Williams Road at the elementary school and potential concerns with sight distance.

Idea 3

The third idea would involve building an extension where Walt Williams makes a 90-degree turn at the northeast corner of the elementary school. It would then curve slightly south before crossing the interstate in a more direct path than option 2. But on the south side of I-4, it would make a sharper S-curve to make its way to Tradeport Boulevard and eventually SR 33. Like the others, the advantage to this route is avoiding impacts to gopher tortoise and eagle nests. The drawbacks, according to the staff report, are that it would conflict with circulation at Wendell Watson and require lower speed limits because of the S-curve.

Idea 4

The final idea would meet Walt Williams at the same spot as option 3, but wouldn't dip to the southeast before crossing the interstate (meaning it would cross I-4 at an odd angle). On the south side of I-4, it would take a slightly straighter path to Tradeport Boulevard, or rather a less-severe S-curve. But instead of taking Tradeport all the way to SR 33, it would curve sharply north between two of the warehouses and exit the complex via Firstpark Boulevard. That would allow the road to lineup up directly with University Boulevard, which leads to Florida Polytechnic and northern Auburndale. The benefits and drawbacks of this plan, according to staff, would be the same as option 3 except it would have one extra drawback — it would require a longer bridge over I-4 because of the awkward angle.

The open house

At Tuesday's open house, residents can view the plans and ask questions anytime from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

For those unable to attend, there will be a live, online workshop on Thursday from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Advanced registration is required at https://bit.ly/3SfYRo2.

To view the full staff report before the meetings, go to the project webpage at https://www.swflroads.com/project/447989-1. Comments can be made through the webpage, or they can be emailed to adam.rose@dot.state.fl.us or mailed to FDOT District One, Attn: Adam Rose, 801 N. Broadway Ave., Bartow, FL 33830). The FDOT said comments must be received or postmarked by March 4 to be included in the formal Public Workshop record.

Questions can be answered by calling the FDOT project manager Adam Rose at 863-519-2832.

FDOT considers SunRail stops in Lakeland, Haines City, other Polk County cities

A commuter rail line that could connect Lakeland and Orlando is one step closer. This isn’t the high-speed Brightline, it’s SunRail.The Florida Department of Transportation is recommending a possible route for SunRail with seven stops across Polk County.Polk County is the fastest growing county in the state, and planners are looking for...

A commuter rail line that could connect Lakeland and Orlando is one step closer. This isn’t the high-speed Brightline, it’s SunRail.

The Florida Department of Transportation is recommending a possible route for SunRail with seven stops across Polk County.

Polk County is the fastest growing county in the state, and planners are looking for ways to head off congestion.

"With this population growth, one of the key challenges is transportation congestion.-traffic congestion," said Parag Agrawal, the executive director of the Polk Transportation Organization.

The current proposal would extend SunRail from its existing station in Poinciana, through Polk County to stops in Haines City, Davenport, Lake Alfred, Auburndale, and finally Lakeland, 37 miles away.

But the plan could hit a bump with Polk County Commissioners, one of the bodies that would need to approve the plan.

"What’s wrong with it is that we do not have an unlimited supply of money," Commissioner Neil Combee said. "This will come at a tremendous cost."

The project could cost more than $350 million for just the first phase, a 16-mile stretch from Poinciana to Haines City.

Some question whether the train would succeed in reducing traffic on I-4.

"It doesn’t go anywhere that anybody's going to want to go," says Polk County Commissioner Bill Braswell. "It goes to Downtown Orlando Monday through Friday."

Braswell says SunRail currently doesn’t go to Disney World or International Drive where a lot of workers from Polk County have jobs.

He says the money would be better spent widening I-4 and adding express lanes. But others question whether enough lanes can be added to keep up with growth.

"Our population is 800,000 now, and it is projected to be 1.2 million by 2045," says Agrawal.

Much of the construction costs would be paid by the state and federal governments, but local governments would likely have to pay for everyday operations.

With fewer groves and bigger neighborhoods, the tracks are a dividing line in fast-growing Polk County.

If approved by the Polk County Commission and other officials, the entire line through Polk County wouldn’t open until 2035 at the earliest.

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