Orlando Woman Charged With DUI With Serious Bodily Injury After Crash Critically Injuring 2 Young Children In Frostproof Crash

Frostproof

Staff Reporter

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May 22, 2023

32-year-old Ashauntie Cox (DOB 2/15/1991) of Orlando, who caused serious bodily harm to two children in her vehicle while fleeing from two crashes and driving under the influence, was arrested in Polk County on Friday, May 19, 2023, and charged with several felonies.

According to witnesses and information developed during the investigation, the first crash occurred around 8:00 p.m. on US Hwy 27 at the intersection with US Hwy 98 near Frostproof. Cox was driving a blue Kia southbound on Hwy 27 when she struck a grey Chevy Silverado pickup truck and then fled at a high rate of speed. As she continued to recklessly speed south down Hwy 27, weaving in and out of slower moving traffic, she rear-ended a 2016 Honda CRV while trying to pass between that SUV and the vehicle next to it which were both also going southbound. The victim driving the CRV was taken to Sebring Hospital, where he was treated and released with minor injuries.

The collision caused Cox’s vehicle to flip several times, ejecting two Orlando children, ages 5 and 8 years old. Both sustained significant injuries, and they were taken to Tampa General Hospital where they are both in critical condition. A 27-year-old female passenger was also seriously injured along her spinal cord, hip, and back. She remains at Lakeland Regional Health Medical Center in stable condition.

When deputies arrived at the scene of the crash, they detected the odor of marijuana and located a bottle of tequila in Cox’s vehicle. Cox was transported to the hospital and interview by deputies. Cox told deputies they were driving from Orlando to Avon Park to celebrate the 5-year-old’s kindergarten graduation. She admitted to smoking marijuana earlier in the day, and to having four shots of tequila. Her blood was drawn for further analysis, and she displayed several signs of impairment.

She was booked into the Polk County Jail and is being charged with:

· Three counts DUI with serious bodily injury (F3)

· Two counts negligent child abuse with great bodily harm (F2)

· Reckless driving (F3)

· One count DUI with property damage (M1)

· One count DUI (M2)

Further charges are pending the outcome of the investigation.

“This woman had no regard for anyone’s life when she got behind the wheel intoxicated and then drove recklessly down a major highway, but what’s worse is the blatant disregard she had for the lives of the innocent children in her car. I expect a successful prosecution to hold her accountable—and let’s hope she loses her driving privileges if she’s released from jail or prison. Please keep these babies and their families in your prayers.” – Grady Judd, Sheriff

Man Accused In Lake Wales Sexual Battery Case Later Arrested After FHP Pursuit And Crashing Into PCSO Vehicle

carl

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May 21, 2026

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Man Accused In Lake Wales Sexual Battery Case Later Arrested After FHP Pursuit And Crashing Into PCSO Vehicle

A 23-year-old man now facing a sexual battery charge in Polk County was later arrested the same night after allegedly leading Florida Highway Patrol troopers on a dangerous pursuit through portions of northeast Polk County.

Investigators with the Lake Wales Police Department arrested Cory Tomaine Bowland Jr. on May 13, 2026, following an investigation into an alleged sexual battery that reportedly occurred on March 30 in a developing area off Hunt Brothers Road near Lake Wales.

According to the arrest affidavit, the victim told detectives she traveled from Georgia to Polk County with Bowland after meeting him through a dating application. Investigators say the two eventually arrived at a residence on Kimbrough Drive, identified in court records as Bowland’s mother’s home. The victim told detectives that after spending time there, she was taken to a remote area within a developing subdivision off Hunt Brothers Road, south of State Road 60 near Lake Wales. The victim reported fearing for her life during the encounter and alleged that Bowland was armed with a rifle during the incident.

Due to the sensitive nature of the case, Daily Ridge is withholding graphic details contained in investigative documents.

Court records indicate the alleged sexual battery occurred earlier on March 30, 2026. Later that same day, Bowland was accused of fleeing from Florida Highway Patrol troopers during a pursuit that ended near Dundee.

At the time troopers attempted to stop the vehicle they were not yet aware of the sexual battery allegations that would later surface through the Lake Wales Police Department investigation.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol arrest report, troopers attempted to stop Bowland for speeding on US 27 near Haines City at approximately 10:29 p.m. on March 30.

According to reports Bowland initially stopped and pulled over. The trooper exited his vehicle and when he got to the driver’s side door the vehicle took off (the stop was recorded by FHP dashcam video). Investigators allege Bowland accelerated away, reaching speeds well over 100 mph while weaving through traffic and driving into oncoming lanes during portions of the pursuit.

The fleeing vehicle ran the red traffic signal at the intersection of West Frederick Avenue and Center Street and collided with a marked Polk County Sheriff’s Office patrol vehicle. The suspect vehicle then struck a fence located on the northeast corner of the intersection.

A passenger in the vehicle reportedly fled on foot toward the Dundee Elementary School area before being taken into custody.

During a search of the vehicle, investigators reported locating a rifle, ammunition, and more than 250 grams of cannabis. In the sexual battery investigation (earlier that day) the victim alleged the suspect had a rifle during the sexual assault. The suspect also was a convicted felon in possession of all these items.

Detectives with Lake Wales Police later recovered evidence from the area identified by the victim and submitted items to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement for forensic testing. The victim also reportedly identified Bowland during a photo lineup.

The State Attorney’s Office has since filed a motion for pretrial detention, requesting that Bowland remain in custody while the case proceeds through the court system. Prosecutors noted in the filing that Bowland was already on pretrial release supervision stemming from the fleeing and eluding case at the time he was arrested in the sexual battery investigation.

Court filings also state Bowland previously served a prison sentence connected to accessory after the fact to homicide and obstructing a criminal investigation charges before his release from the Florida Department of Corrections in December 2024.

Bowland remains in custody.

Lake Wales History Museum Continues to Grow with Visitors, Events, and Funding

Local Government and Politics

Allison

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May 20, 2026

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Lake Wales History Museum Continues to Grow with Visitors, Events, and Funding

by James Coulter

More visitors. More exhibits and events. Even more opportunities for future growth. These were some of the highlights of the Lake Wales History Museum within the past two years.

At a work session last month, the Lake Wales City Commission was given a presentation on the city’s museum, highlighting its overall growth and renovations over the past 18 months.

Interim Director Nicole Nikdel mentioned how the museum has experienced a significant increase in both attendance and funding, receiving more than 1,000 visitors, securing more than $75,000 in grants, donations, and support, and generating $8,600 through memberships and gift shop sales.

As of September 2025, the museum has fully reopened with new exhibits highlighting the city’s history, including its founding, local attractions past and present, and major industries that contributed to its growth.

More than simply teaching about the city’s past, the museum has also spurred interest in the city’s present, with many out-of-town visitors inspired to explore more of the city after visiting the museum.

“We almost function as a welcome center for Lake Wales because a lot of people are coming down Scenic Highway and come to our building to learn more about the area,” Nikdel said.

The museum has also undergone massive renovations, including an exterior refresh of the museum and collections center, upgraded landscaping, renovated decks and ramps, exterior and interior paint touchups, and a new tile roof.

One major highlight is the museum’s Freight Room, which has received electrical improvements and been utilized to host programs and events such as the museum’s book club through a $12,000 sponsorship.

Likewise, the museum has experienced success in hosting several community initiatives, such as the “Back to School Bash” and the “Load the Locomotive” school supply drive, which served hundreds of families.

The biggest and most successful event, by far, has been the museum’s annual Pioneer Days. Last year’s event drew in more than 9,000 attendees, with 3,300 attendees arriving from outside of the county.

Expectations remain high for this year’s Pioneer Days, which will not only coincide with the 50th anniversary of the festival and museum but also with America’s 250th celebration.

“Our doors are open to the entire community, and we invite you to visit, explore local history, take part in programs and field trips, and celebrate with us,” Nikdel wrote.

Commissioner Carol Gillespie inquired about the permanent Museum Director Position. Nikdel clarified that the position “remains officially open” and that she has been “an active applicant,” according to City Clerk Jennifer Nanek.

“She is eager to remain in the role if the board believes her performance justifies it, while acknowledging the city’s right to seek the most experienced fit for the long-term leadership of the museum,’ Nanek wrote.

Commissioner Keith Thompson inquired about the major challenges currently facing the museum, to which Nikdel answered, “community engagement and public perception.”

“The common obstacle is the lingering misconception that the museum is still closed,” Nanek wrote. “To combat this…[the] current strategy focuses on being an ‘active part of the community’ to spread the word that the museum is fully operational, updated, and open for visitors.” Nanek wrote.

Fentanyl Bust in Lake Wales Leads to Trafficking Charges Against Local Man

LAKE WALES POLICE DEPARTMENT

carl

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May 19, 2026

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Fentanyl Bust in Lake Wales Leads to Trafficking Charges Against Local Man

The Lake Wales Police Department arrested a Lake Wales man on fentanyl trafficking charges following the execution of a search warrant earlier this month.

According to police, detectives with the department’s Crime Suppression Unit served a search warrant on May 7, 2026, at a residence located on Columbia Avenue as part of an ongoing narcotics investigation.

During the search, detectives reportedly recovered more than 100 grams of fentanyl, along with drug paraphernalia and materials commonly associated with the sale and distribution of illegal narcotics.

As a result of the investigation, 45-year-old Sidney James Palmer of Lake Wales was arrested and charged with:

• Trafficking in Fentanyl Over 4 Grams
• Keeping or Maintaining a Structure for Drug Activity
• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Police said Palmer’s prior arrest history includes charges for possession of cocaine with intent to sell, possession of drug paraphernalia, burglary of an unarmed structure, and petit theft.

Anyone with information regarding illegal drug activity is encouraged to contact Heartland Crime Stoppers at 1-800-226-TIPS (8477). Tipsters can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.

Lake Wales Commission Approves Annexed Roads and Maintenance for Traffic Light and Highway Lighting

Local Government and Politics

Allison

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May 19, 2026

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Lake Wales Commission Approves Annexed Roads and Maintenance for Traffic Light and Highway Lighting
by James Coulter

The annexation of 19 roads into the city limits, along with updated agreements for traffic light and highway lighting maintenance, was approved by the Lake Wales City Commission.

At their regular meeting on Tues. May 5, 2026, Lake Wales city commissioners voted on several ordinances and resolutions on city roadways, traffic lights, and highway lighting.

Commissioners voted unanimously to approve the second reading of an ordinance annexing the right-of-way of several highways, roads, and streets into the incorporated city limits.

These roadways were considered for annexation, as many of them, while bordered by city limits, remained outside municipal jurisdiction, creating complications for public safety response.

“This condition limits the ability of the City’s Police Department and Fire Department to provide direct and timely services in areas immediately adjacent to incorporated properties,” wrote Albert C. Galloway, City Attorney.

“Annexing these contiguous rights-of-way will establish a clear and consistent jurisdictional boundary, allowing for more efficient and effective delivery of public safety services to surrounding areas,” he further elaborated.

Right-of-way was annexed for the following roadways:

Lake Mabel Loop Road from Scenic Hwy to Tower Rd. /100’ North on Tower Rd. /100’ South on Tower Rd. /100’ North on Scenic Hwy
Hamlin St. from SR 60 to Post Salter Rd.
Tangelo St. from SR 60 to Thulberry Rd. /100’ South on Tangelo St. past Thulberry Rd
1st St. South from Winston Ave to Carver St. / 100’ on Citrus Ave East of 1st St. /100’ on Ridge Manor Dr East of 1st St. /100’ on Carver St East of 1st St.
Old Scenic Hwy from City Limits Rd to Scenic Hwy
Scenic Highway from Winston Ave South to the Hunt Brothers Rd roundabout./100’ on Winston Ave East of Scenic Hwy. /100’ on Ridge Manor Dr East of Scenic Hwy. /100’ on Hunt Brothers Rd South of roundabout. /100’ on Hunt Brothers Rd East of the roundabout. /100’ on Hunt Brothers Rd West of the roundabout
9th Street from Whispering Ridge Dr to Passion Play Rd. /100’on 9th St South of Passion Play Rd.
Belleview Dr. from Santa Maria Rd. to 11th St. /100’ North on Santa Maria Rd. /100’ South on Big Tank Rd. /100’ on Belleview Dr. West of Santa Maria Rd.
11th St South to Hunt Brothers Rd
Hunt Brothers Rd from SR 60 to 11th St. /100’ on Hunt Brothers Rd West of 11th St. 100’ on Lilly St. East of Hunt Brothers Rd.
Grove Rd. 3 from 9th St. to 11th St.
G.R. Rd. from Grove Rd. 3 to Belleview Dr.
Lake Bella Rd from Hunt Brothers Rd North to its dead end.
Passion Play Rd. from Scenic Hwy to 11th St. /100’ on Big Tank Rd South of Passion Play Rd.
Mountain Lake Cut Off Rd from Hwy 27 to Connor Rd. /100’ on Mountain Lake Cut off West of Connor Rd. /100’ North on Connor Rd.
Burns Ave from Buck Moore Rd to Holland Grove Rd.
Miami St. from Laurel Park Terrace to Hwy 27.
Post Salter Rd from 11th St. to Hunt Brothers Rd.
CF Kinney Rd. from Dinner Lake Blvd to Waverly Rd. /100’ on Waverly Rd. West of CF Kinney Rd. /100’ on Waverly Rd. East of CF Kinney Rd.

Commissioners also voted unanimously to approve the first reading of two resolutions on amendments to agreements with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT).

One resolution pertained to traffic signal maintenance services at designated intersections, including multiple intersections along SR 17, SR 60, and US 27. The amendment to the agreement will allow the city to receive $69,670.

The other resolution pertained to “the maintenance of approximately 270 lighting assets, including standard and underdeck LED lighting located along SR 60, US 27, Scenic Highway, and associated interchange facilities,” wrote Nancy C. Hernandez, Public Works Operations Manager.

The amendment to the agreement will allow the city to receive $96,749.10, with the compensation “calculated based on a per-light unit rate, which increases annually by 3 percent,” Hernandez wrote.

Robin Gibson Steps Down as Lake Wales Deputy Mayor, Ending 50-Year-Long Political Legacy

Local Government and Politics

Allison

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May 18, 2026

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Robin Gibson Steps Down as Lake Wales Deputy Mayor, Ending 50-Year-Long Political Legacy

by James Coulter

After nearly 50 years of helping promote economic development through city government, Deputy Mayor Robin Gibson officially ended his political career with dignity and grace.

At their regular meeting earlier this month, Lake Wales city commissioners bid farewell to Gibson, who stepped down from his position and passed the torch to the newly elected commissioner, Terry Miller. Commissioner Keith Thompson was appointed to fill the deputy mayor role.

During his farewell speech, Gibson remarked on his career-long goal of overseeing community redevelopment, especially in Downtown Lake Wales.

Gibson was instrumental in forming the Lake Wales Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) in the mid-1980s. However, he became disheartened when city officials used the CRA less to promote development and more to funnel funding into the city’s treasury.

“Frankly, it drove me nuts,” he said. “So much that I did what I thought I would never do, and that is run for election to public office.”

Gibson admitted that, during his time in public office, her served less as a “leader” and more as a “lawyer”, helping to guide the commission on how best to utilize the CRA statute to help promote redevelopment.

He cited five significant decisions that he helped the commission make during his tenure:

Change city managers with the intention of fully utilizing the CRA.
Hired the “right” planning firm.
Took a risk with entering an $18.5 million bond to fund the renovation of Market Plaza and Park Avenue.
Won several competitive grants, including more than $30 million for community redevelopment.
Entered litigation to reclaim ownership of the Historic Walesbilt Hotel, finally obtaining the title through a settlement.

Over the past ten years, Gibson has witnessed Lake Wales Downtown undergo massive redevelopment and refurbishment, and he hopes to see all that hard work completed with the hotel renovation.

“This is the chance of a lifetime,” he said. “So I leave you now, and I wish you all the best. I plead with you: keep the momentum going. Make it better. Make it more beautiful.”

Mayor Jack Hilligoss thanked Gibson for his leadership and service, which put “Lake Wales on the right train and right track.” Commissioner Carol Gillespie commended him for serving as “a role model that we can all be happy to follow.”

After being sworn into her new seat, Commissioner Miller mentioned how she was “standing on the shoulders of giants,” including Gibson.

“I know Lake Wales is really experiencing a renaissance,” she said. “Mr. Gibson really raised that flag, and he is the reason I ran is to keep that flag raised.”

Dolores Vogel, President of Lake Wales Main Street, honored Gibson during public comments by telling him about a bench in front of East Park Avenue that will be dedicated to him with a plaque.

“On behalf of Lake Wales Main Street, we thank you for all you have done,” she said.

One resident, Al Goldstein, used his time during public comments to commend the former deputy mayor and his many accomplishments.

“Hard to recognize a man who has done a wonderful job not only in ten years but also for the city and the state,” he said. “Our politics are a distance apart, but he always respected me for what I thought, and I always respected him.”

In Loving Memory of Donavon James William Miller, an Infant, of Lake Wales

Obituaries

Maria Iannucci

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May 15, 2026

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In Loving Memory of Donavon James William Miller, an Infant, of Lake Wales

May 9, 2026 — May 9, 2026

Lake Wales, Florida

Donavon James William Miller was born and passed away on May 9, 2026, in Lakeland, Florida.

Donavon is survived by his father, Dennis Miller of Lake Wales, and his mother, Mendy Reneea Miller, also of Lake Wales. Donavon’s siblings include his sister, Jordan Miller of Lakeland, and his brothers, Dennis Miller, Jr., and Devon Miller, both of Lake Wales.

A memorial service to honor Donavon’s life was held on May 13, 2026, at Marion Nelson Funeral Home in Lake Wales.

Condolences can be sent to the family at www.marionnelsonfuneralhome.com.

City of Lake Wales Through It’s CRA Will Purchase The Building Locally Known As Peterson & Myers For 4.5 Million-Adding 160+ Parking Spaces Downtown

Lake Wales

carl

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May 12, 2026

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City of Lake Wales Through It’s CRA Will Purchase The Building Locally Known As Peterson & Myers For 4.5 Million-Adding 160+ Parking Spaces Downtown

City of Lake Wales Press Release

Lake Wales, Fla. (May 12, 2026) – Board members of the Lake Wales Community Redevelopment Agency approved a $4.5 million acquisition of a 22,000 square-foot, three-story conditioned building and parking lot located at 100 W. Stuart Ave., adjacent to the Walesbilt Hotel in historic downtown Lake Wales.

The sale and purchase agreement will be executed between White Pelican Partners, LLC from Winter Haven, FL and the Lake Wales Community Redevelopment Agency.

Conceptual plans include more than 160 on-site and on-street parking spaces to accommodate future patrons of the Walesbilt Hotel and nearby businesses. A civic greenspace and pavilion are planned for the intersections at First Street, Stuart Avenue, and Central Avenue.

“Our goal is maximizing value by implementing scalable solutions that justify every dollar spent,” City Manager James Slaton said.

Representatives at White Pelican Partners, LLC will continue managing the lease agreements with tenants as part of the post-closing occupancy agreement.

Red-Light Camera Installation Work Begins Along SR 60 In Lake Wales

Lake Wales

carl

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May 12, 2026

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Red-Light Camera Installation Work Begins Along SR 60 In Lake Wales

Drivers traveling through Lake Wales may soon notice new poles and equipment being installed at several major intersections as the city moves closer to launching its long-discussed red-light camera enforcement program.

Crews were seen this week installing poles and related infrastructure along State Road 60, where red-light cameras are expected to become installed within the coming weeks. The work follows earlier approval by the Lake Wales City Commission to move forward with both school zone speed enforcement cameras and red-light camera technology.

Worker installing red light camera poles and signs on State Road 60 at 11th St.

According to previous information released by the city, the red-light camera program is intended to target dangerous intersections where officials say drivers frequently run red lights and create safety concerns.

The city previously announced enforcement locations would include:

• Westbound 1st Street and State Road 60
• Westbound 3rd Street and State Road 60
• Westbound 11th Street and State Road 60

City officials also indicated cameras would be placed along portions of U.S. Highway 27 and State Road 60 where law enforcement and traffic officials believe enforcement could improve safety.

Lake Wales would become the sixth city in Polk County to implement red-light camera enforcement.

The move comes after city leaders also approved school zone speed cameras near local schools. A traffic study conducted on Sept. 29, 2023, reportedly found 2,036 incidents of vehicles traveling above the posted speed limit at Lake Wales High School.

Under the city’s previously released guidelines, once the red-light camera system is activated, drivers would first receive a 30-day warning period before citations are issued. After that period, violations could result in a $158 civil citation with no points assessed against a driver’s license.

According to the city, the system records the date, time, location, vehicle speed, and license plate information when a violation occurs. Officials have stated all citations would be reviewed and approved by a member of the Lake Wales Police Department before being issued.

The installation work seen this week appears to signal the enforcement program is entering its final stages before activation.

Lake Wales Daily reached out to the Lake Wales Police Department to find out when those cameras will be operational. We were advised that the officer in charge of that project is out this week, but we should have information next week. Keep up-to-date with Lake Wales Daily for more information.

HCSO Deputy Arrested in Sebring for DUI, Leaving Scene of Crash

Homepage

Allison

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May 12, 2026

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HCSO Deputy Arrested in Sebring for DUI, Leaving Scene of Crash

A Highlands County Sheriff’s Office deputy was arrested on the morning of May 11, 2026 and charged with driving under the influence and leaving the scene of a crash with property damage.

Deputy Lars Kirkegard was involved in a minor traffic crash at the intersection of Sebring Parkway and Kenilworth Boulevard in Sebring shortly after 7 a.m. Kirkegard then drove away from the scene. Nobody was injured in the crash.

At the request of the HCSO, the Florida Highway Patrol investigated the incident and arrested Kirkegard around 10 a.m.

Kirkegard, who has worked for the HCSO since 2007, has been placed on administrative leave without pay pending the outcome of the criminal investigation and an internal investigation into the incident.

“The citizens of Highlands County expect a high standard of professionalism and accountability from every member of the Highlands County Sheriff’s Office, and when one of our people fails to meet those standards, it is very disappointing,” Sheriff Paul Blackman said. “I want to thank the Florida Highway Patrol for quickly responding and investigating this incident, and we will fully cooperate with their investigation.”

Note: Not all arrests result in convictions. Everyone is considered innocent until proven guilty in court.

*information provided by Highlands County Sheriff’s Office

City’s Pavement Management Program Continues With Roadway Improvements Across Multiple Streets

Lake Wales

Allison

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May 11, 2026

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City’s Pavement Management Program Continues With Roadway Improvements Across Multiple Streets

The next phase of the City’s pavement management program is underway. The program is part of a multi-year plan, fully funded for the first time in 2021. It’s geared to address a backlog of roadway maintenance through resurfacing, cape seals, and micro-surfacing. More than 32 segments of roadways have received a prescribed treatment plan since the start of the program.

Check out the list of roadways recently milled and reshaped with a two-inch layer of asphalt:

3rd Street North
4th Street North
5th Street North
Seminole Avenue
Tillman Avenue

Segments of First Street and Russell Avenue are scheduled to be treated.

Photos and info provided by the City of Lake Wales.

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