We're Lakeland, part III

Ever wonder why there is no sign for "Lakeland" at exit 18, in spite of the excellent Lakeland Kroger, Zaxby's , Backyard Burger, Lenny's and other Lakeland shopping, not to mention Stonebridge and other nice residential areas?

There is also a Hertz rental car office in the Kroger shopping center and marking this exit will help Hertz customers find the office. I recently rented a vehicle there and I was impressed by the excellent service of the local representatives, not to mention the convenience.

Why does exit 18 emphasize two far-off cities and not even mention Lakeland? I wondered also. When I first came to Lakeland I corresponded with Tennessee Department of Transportation officials and received a variety of answers, including "only two cities can be mentioned on a sign" etc.

At one time I was promised a small "Lakeland" sign right at the exit ramp, but it never appeared.

I'm BACK! I think it is time that exit 18 was recognized as a "Lakeland exit". I'm writing Senator Mark Norris and Representative Bubba Pleasant to ask "Why no Lakeland sign at Exit 18?" I hope, if you feel Lakeland needs a "Lakeland exit" at exit 18, you will also write them.

Both Senator Norris and Representative Pleasant have been very responsive to Lakeland needs and we appreciate their assistance and caring. I urge you to write them to support a "Lakeland exit" at exit 18.

I think this will be especially important when work starts on the exit 20 (Canada Road) interchange since it will provides the only alternative exit off of I-40 to Lakeland.