For immediate release:  May 8, 2026contact:  Office of the City Manager                  352-728-9786 ext. 1100                  [email protected]

For immediate release:  May 8, 2026contact:  Office of the City Manager                  352-728-9786 ext. 1100                  [email protected] City announces 5th Street Downtown Parking Project           LEESBURG, FL - The city of Leesburg is launching the 5th Street Downtown Parking Project to increase parking, improve pedestrian safety and enhance the downtown experience for everyone. The goal is a more connected, accessible and vibrant downtown that supports local businesses and encourages walkability. When complete, the project will add 48 parking spaces to this corridor. Key improvements include: Expanding and reconfiguring public parking areas Redeveloping the former Leesburg Arts Center property as a new parking lot Adding wayfinding signage and pedestrian navigation tools Upgrading sections of crosswalks and ADA-compliant sidewalks Installing better pedestrian lighting and traffic calming features Enhancing landscaping and gathering spaces   Construction will proceed in phases to minimize disruption as follows: Phase 1: Initial Parking & Infrastructure (Begins May 20, 2026) Demolition, site clearing, drainage, paving, concrete work and signage for new parking areas Phase 2: Expanded Site & Streetscape (Begins August 2026) Additional clearing, utility upgrades, roadway and parking base construction, paving and enhanced signage Phase 3: Final Corridor Enhancements (Begins November 2026) Remaining demolition, paving, curb and concrete work and final signage before project completion             The city will provide regular updates on milestones, traffic impacts and public accessibility. Residents and business owners are invited to a Public Open House at the Venetian Center on Wednesday May 27th from 3:00pm–5:00pm. An informational brief will also be provided at the Leesburg Area Chamber of Commerce Sunrise Breakfast on Thursday May 28th from 7:00am -9:00am.           For additional information, please contact the Leesburg Public Works Department at 352-435-9442.   Leesburg is a progressive city of more than 33,000 residents in northwest Lake County. The city government serves twice as many people with its electric, gas, water and wastewater public utilities. Leesburg is also a central hub for commerce, attracting 50,000 people to work each weekday. For more information, visit www.leesburgflorida.gov. ###