Lakeland closes a popular city playground to cut down two diseased oak trees

Lakeland staff have closed down a city park starting Monday to allow for removal and cleanup of a potential hazard.

Fletcher Park's playground was closed Monday for the city to remove two declining oak trees. The trees have noticeable and documented issues that could cause a hazard to those using the playground.

Fletcher Park at Lake Bonny is well known as a great shaded playground for young children, as Lakeland Mom notes, especially during the hot summer months. It is located at 800 U.S. 98 South.

The city expected the area to be closed for five business days to properly remove the trees and grind down the stumps. It was decided to have city crews work during the weekdays to avoid impacting the playground's heavier use on weekends.

The playground at Fletcher Park was completely upgraded last in 2016. Its design includes playground equipment for all ages including baby swings, a four-person seesaw and tactile climbing areas.