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From ‘recreation desert’ to its golden era, Lakeland Parks is booming

By , Special to The Daily Memphian Updated: October 13, 2025 4:00 AM CT | Published: October 13, 2025 4:00 AM CT

Lakeland Mayor Josh Roman says this as the golden era for his city’s parks system with major projects considered and expansion of recreation offerings on the horizon.

“We’ve gone from a recreation desert to thriving in a short time,” Roman said. “When we open the Lakeland Community Center and adjacent pickleball courts, it will be the cherry on top.”

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City of Lakeland Lakeland Parks and Recreation Mayor Josh Roman Lakeland YMCA Subscriber Only

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Michael Waddell

Michael Waddell is a native Memphian with more than 20 years of professional writing and editorial experience, working most recently with The Daily News and High Ground News.


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