$55 million middle school modernization nears completion in Lakeland, Florida

The Polk County (Florida) district says the $55 million modernization of Southwest Middle School in Lakeland is on track for completion this spring.

The Lakeland Ledger reports that the project, which broke ground last September, encompasses more than 183,000 square feet of facilities, including a central courtyard and new cafeteria. The new buildings have improved energy efficiency and upgraded safety features.

The campus opened in 1956 as a junior high school and by 1992 it had become a middle school for grades six through eight. The modernization is adding 297 additional student stations, raising capacity to 1,350 stations. 

Funding for the $55 million renovation comes from impact fees and the county's half-cent sales tax, which voters renewed in 2018.