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"Local News and Food Truck Court - A Perfect Blend"

Transforming an Ugly Lot into a Beautiful Space

Two Lakeland entrepreneurs have embarked on an exciting project to transform a former used-car lot east of downtown. They aim to create a food-truck court called Main Street Eats and bring life to an area struggling with blight. The Lakeland Planning & Zoning Board unanimously approved a conditional-use permit for the property at 1112 E. Main St., showing the community's support for this revitalization effort.This transformation is not just about aesthetics; it's about creating a useful space for the community. The developers hope to see it open by summer, bringing together local food trucks and a sense of community.

Food Trucks and More at Main Street Eats

The permit approved on Tuesday allows for eight food trucks to operate at Main Street Eats. These food trucks will offer a diverse range of cuisines, satisfying the taste buds of locals and visitors alike. While beer and wine are not included in the permit initially, the developers are considering serving them in the rear building of a 112-year-old house that they will preserve.Ken James and Ziomara Taveras, the owners of Plates on Deck, will manage the site. They recently competed on The Great Food Truck Race and are known for their eclectic soul food. Rahman emphasizes that the food at Main Street Eats will be of the highest quality, not short on anything.

Historic Preservation and Community Support

Rahman, a retired banker, and his business partner Chad Englund decided to save a 1912 home on the property, one of the oldest in the city. This home will be turned into a restaurant and a venue for acoustic music in the evenings, adding to the charm of the area.They also plan to transform a 1950s-era office into customer bathrooms and a commissary for the food truck owners. This will provide a convenient and hygienic space for the food truck operators.Rahman won a historic preservation award in 2013 for renovating a 1925 Spanish-style home, and he was part of the team that refurbished the former Purity Ice building. This shows his commitment to preserving the history of Lakeland.

Addressing Parking and Visual Improvements

To ensure the smooth operation of Main Street Eats, Rahman and Englund bought an adjacent lot behind the property, which fronts onto Rose Street and will be used for parking. The owners of the adjacent strip mall have agreed to allow them to park cars there, and they have a gentleman's agreement with the Masonic Lodge for more parking.In addition, a large, unsightly billboard on the property will be removed, along with several others. In exchange, an electronic billboard will be placed on bustling Bartow Highway, enhancing the visual appeal of the area.Now, the developers need to obtain City Commission approval before they can begin construction. They anticipate opening about six months after obtaining the necessary permits, bringing a new wave of excitement to Lakeland.