As a lifelong resident of Plant City, I am watching with satisfaction as we develop our new Midtown section. The spirit of renewal this brings to our special corner of America feels refreshing and revitalizing. The space already packs the potential for further beautification of this town we love.
It seems that towns go through periods of life just like people do and the past few years saw Plant City take its share of the economy’s downward pull. Just having grass planted and street lights set in the Midtown area serve to inspire renewed pride in living where we do.
This pride speaks in quiet, measured tones — not loud or boastful ones. Plant City long ago established the reputation of having an active, concerned and involved community of citizens. We know this aspect of life still flourishes here when we see developments such as Midtown.
Plant City remains the kind of town that likes to beautify its public spaces. These places give us a functional purpose to do business and enjoy ourselves, but they also take shape as spots that welcome a sense of visual appreciation. A city that works well for everyday living also can be a city where beauty shines forth.
Beautiful churches and other historic buildings in our downtown area remind us that standing structures need our continued care. People involved in refurbishing or remodeling existing buildings play a part in stewarding Plant City’s physical legacy. They act as inspirations to new developments like Midtown.
Signifying our commitment to keeping Plant City an attractive and appealing place to live means welcoming what is new and respecting what is older. As I see Midtown grow, I am prompted to do my part to participate in efforts to keep the city a welcoming place to live. I feel thankful we live in a town that gives us public places worth generations of care.
The vision to implement a plan like our new Midtown comes from good city government. As a person who lives here, I feel I owe some thanks to the planners who showed the initiative to set this in motion. We will soon have new places in town to recreate and patronize. These places will enhance the beautiful settings we already have.
In a short time, a drive along Evers or Wheeler streets will open a fresh view of our city. I hope the beauty of these buildings accompanies good times in the Plant City we know and love. I hope we all play a part in letting this renewal begin.
Scott Toler is a licensed mental health counselor living in Plant City. He can be reached at etoler25@tampabay.rr.com.