With a project that started in November of 2025, the South Lake Howard Nature Park Expansion is expected to be complete this summer. That is just in time to address flooding concerns and expand stormwater collection and treatment capabilities while allowing citizens to continue to enjoy the great outdoors.
The park’s territory will almost double in size with its “multi-use” design. The expansion will include more amentities for the public to enjoy. It will also include those enviornmental friendly aspects. For example, there are structures in various ponds designed to contain water with a piping system that holds, treats, and then stage water in efforts to reduce pollutants and return to nature. This will impact the lake quality of the adjacent Lake Howard.
Expansion was made possible with the Public Works team acquiring a Florida Department and Environmental Protection (FDEP) Heartland Headquarters grant that funded $450,000 of this project. Thanks to the collaboration, there will be updated restrooms, an expanded trail, scenic boardwalk, and overall enhanced habitat for nature and wildlife.
Residents can also have access to a pavilion area where educational and environmental programming may take place. Along with a playground, kayaking, fishing, and hiking capabilities. In fact, the South Lake Howard Nature Park will also house the very first 13 hole disc golf course in Winter Haven.
*info provided by the City of Winter Haven
