Lake Hamilton prepares for change amid Polk County growth
Growth is encroaching on Lake Hamilton, a small town set amid the natural landscape of Central Florida. “All throughout Polk County, up and down Highway 27, the orange grove owners are selling off their land,” says Barbara Heddon, a Realtor with Century 21 Myers Realty in nearby Haines City. “We’re the fastest-growing county in the nation. It’s a popular place to be.” As growth spreads slowly but surely into the county’s rural enclaves, Lake Hamilton is ready to adjust as needed. “We see the growth all around us. It’s right on our doorstep,” says Chris Kirby, senior planner for the Town of Lake Hamilton. “But we’re trying to get ahead of the infrastructure and not be behind it so we’re ready for it. It’s a work in progress.” Ongoing residential development is the clearest sign that change isn’t simply on the way, it has arrived.
Lake Hamilton remains an up and coming area that floats the line between the peaceful rural and
Residential growth is concentrated in planned subdivisions lined with contemporary custom homes.
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Town's changing face illustrated by new home construction
Residential growth is concentrated in planned subdivisions dotted with sidewalks and populated with contemporary custom homes offering private driveways and attached garages. The town recently a held a ribbon-cutting for a new wastewater treatment plant, a significant infrastructure addition prompted by the ongoing construction and influx of new residents. Smaller traditional and ranch-style homes built primarily from the early 1960s to the early 1970s on spacious lots are prominent among the town’s established housing, which also includes acreage homes in the more rural areas of town. Prices typically range from the mid-$200,000s to the mid-$500,000s. The largest and most architecturally distinct homes, many of which include private piers and boat slips, are located along the shores of Lake Hamilton. The variety of housing options and the recent growth have made for an increasingly diverse group of residents. “Lake Hamilton attracts a mix of people,” says Angie Garcia, a Realtor with RE/MAX Heritage Professionals. “We have a lot of retirees from up north, but we also have a lot of couples and people who are still working. It’s a small town, but a great place for a big family.”
Larger estate homes on the banks of Lake Hamilton
Customize your own home how you want it in one of the new planned communities. With many home op
This European cottage style home brings a distinctive charm to the Lake Hamilton neighborhood.
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Anchored by a brewery, Port 27 will be the town's first mixed-use development
Another obvious sign of growth can be seen at Port 27. Anchored by a craft brewery that was producing beer by the spring of 2024, it is the town’s first mixed-use development. Located on the lakefront, plans include the addition of commercial shops and eateries, with an opening date slated for the summer of 2024. It’s a big addition and quite a change for a town that has long been home to a single restaurant. That lone eatery is Floridino’s Italian Kitchen, which has been serving up authentic specialties since 1988. Other retail and dining options can be found just south of town along Scenic Highway U.S. 27. Davidson of Dundee is a Polk County institution known for its candy and jams. The Dundee Diner is a popular breakfast destination that always draws a crowd. Nearby Dollar General and Winn-Dixie provide convenient shopping options.
Port 27 an up & coming development will offer a family friendly hot spot full of entertainment.
Dive into the delicious deep dish pizza at Floridino's located on the banks of Lake Hamilton.
Davidson of Dundee is a family-owned factory that has been making delicacies since the 1960's.
Residents of Lake Hamilton can grab their grocery essentials from the local Winn-Dixie.
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Still a small town rooted in tradition
Kirby assures prospective homebuyers that despite the growth, the town will maintain its small-town appeal. And Lake Hamilton remains rooted in tradition. A recent spaghetti dinner was held at the Lake Hamilton Woman’s Club to provide an update on Port 27. The club has been hosting community events at its quaint clubhouse building, a town landmark, for more than 100 years. “We’re a small town that’s big on community,” Kirby says. “We have a Fourth of July celebration, a Christmas celebration where we set up screens and watch Christmas movies, and we are moving forward with more downtown events, where we have music and vendors.”
The quaint clubhouse building is a downtown landmark that hosts public and private events.
With an expansive menu Floridino's offers something for everyone in the family.
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Recreation on the lake is a staple of the community
The lake for which the town is named forms much of the western border and is part of the northern system of Winter Haven’s Chain of Lakes, all of which are connected by canals. “We have a lot of lakes, a LOT of lakes,” says Kirby. "So you don’t have to go to the Atlantic or the Gulf Coast to enjoy the outdoors and recreation on the water.” Fishing is especially popular on the lake, which is large enough to accommodate plenty of boating as well. Traditional green spaces are limited, but residents have access to basketball courts and a playground at Gunter Park.
With Lake Hamilton a large landmark in the neighborhood residents frequent the water on weekends
Fishing is a huge pastime in Lake Hamilton and the surrounding area with most owning boats.
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Students attend public schools in Dundee, Haines City
Students can attend Dundee Elementary Academy, a magnet school rated B-minus by Niche; Shelley S. Boone Middle, a C-minus-rated school; and Haines City Senior High, a C-plus-rated school that offers academy courses in subjects as varied as environmental agriculture and technology, media production and performing arts.
Dundee Elementary Academy is a public school in Dundee, FL.
Shelley S. Boone Middle School is a public school located in Haines City, FL.
Haines City Senior High School is a public high school in Haines City, FL.
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Centrally located between Tampa and Orlando
The town’s location blends rural comfort with accessibility to larger metropolitan areas. “It’s a great place to relocate because it’s between Tampa and Orlando, which are about 45 minutes in either direction,” says Kirby. “You’re close enough to enjoy the benefits of those cities without all the hustle and bustle.” Both Tampa and Orlando have international airports. In addition, Lakeland is 25 miles directly west. Polk County’s largest city is home to a buzzy downtown dining scene and cultural attractions that include the Florida Children’s Museum and the campus of Florida Southern College, a national landmark that is home to 13 buildings designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, the largest single-site collection of the famed architect’s work.
Lakeland is 25 miles directly west. Polk County’s largest city is home to a buzzy downtown area.
Florida Southern College, a national landmark designed by famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright.
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