Residents in North Lakeland are facing a temporary inconvenience as emergency infrastructure repairs demand the closure of a local road. West Campbell Road, situated just west of Jordan Heights Drive, is under a two-week closure to address the failure of a sanitary sewer lift station operated by Polk County Utilities (PCU). The necessity for repairs follows the aftermath of Hurricane Milton which left the lift station dealing with a surge of stormwater and debris, causing significant operational disruptions.
During the storm, the lift station was pushed to its limits. The Polk County reported that, despite the use of an emergency generator, the volume of stormwater and debris was so high that two of the station's three pumps failed. Temporary pumps were quickly installed to bypass the affected lift station and to facilitate the commencement of the necessary repairs, however, the crane used for their installation has contributed, to further deterioration of the road's pavement.
The situation has left West Campbell Road compromised with the roadway pavement in front of the lift station significantly undermined by erosion. Consequently, PCU and county officials have decided to close the road from Jordan Heights Drive to Chestnut View Drive, ensuring a safe work environment for repair crews and preventing possible accidents. Though local traffic to home sites is still permitted, any through traffic along this stretch has been restricted.
Residents and commuters are being directed to alternate routes, recommending Lewis Road or Kathleen Road south to Duff Road as viable detours around the construction zone. With these diversions in place, traffic is expected to experience increased congestion, especially during the morning and evening rush hours. PCU advises motorists to take necessary precautions by driving carefully and allowing for extra time during their travels through these areas.
For those seeking further details on the ongoing repairs and road closure, additional information can be obtained by contacting the Polk County Roads & Drainage Division at (863) 535-2200.
