Improvement League of Plant City, Inc.

Laura Street Historical District

Progress At Last

Laura Street, located in the Lincoln Park Neighborhood, Plant City, Florida was once a flourishing area for local black businesses in Plant City.

Since 1998 the City of Plant City has attempted to launch re-development efforts in Lincoln Park without much success. Now in the year 2005, residents have received the opportunity once again to pursue restoration of the once thriving business sector.

The City of Plant City recently moved forward with restoration and revitalization efforts in Lincoln Park. One of their biggest's project completed in Oct 2005 is the Jenkins Pond Project (see photo). This pond will be stocked with fish and a well light walking path surrounding the pond. This multi-million dollar project is just the start of the soon to be restore Laura Street Business District. The Bing Rooming House anchors the neighborhood and pond on the south east corner (bottom left side of photo). Photograph provided by the City of Plant City.

Will residents hold themselves accountable?

The closing of the African American Businesses on Laura Street can be blamed in part on the surrounding black residents whom did not support them during the early 1900s.

There are few remanants of buildings that once housed the numerous bakeries, bars, hotels, barbershops, grocery stores, and beauty salons.

It is now up to the residents to follow up with the City of Plant City to restore Laura Street.

Take Action

Continue to call your City Commissioners and encourage them to stay committed to the plan of restoring this area. Thank the city leaders for having the faith and fortitude to move forward.

Call the local Chamber of Commerce? Why, because their mission is to promote new businesses setting up in Plant City.

Email us
wsolutions@tampabay.rr.com